WiCell to offer free stem cell training to UW-Madison researchers

In an effort to increase the number of UW–Madison researchers working with human embryonic stem cells, WiCell has agreed to waive the $300 fee for taking its two-day stem cell training course. The course offers a hands-on training opportunity for those who have considered doing research using human embryonic stem cells. Classes are held monthly and there are openings now.

Through an intensive lab experience, the course is designed to help scientists using stem cell lines to become more familiar with the protocols and nuances of working with these special cells. The course is taught by people who have been working with James Thomson’s human embryonic stem cells for years. More than 115 scientists from all over the world have traveled to Madison to take advantage of the program.

Participants will also have the opportunity to ask questions of stem cell scientists who are working on neural, blood, pancreas or heart cells that were derived from stem cells.

This is a unique opportunity for UW–Madison faculty, staff and students to explore this exciting scientific breakthrough at no cost to them or their department. NIH has grants available to researchers who are interested in getting started in human embryonic stem cell research. See NIH’s latest announcement.

For more information, a full description of the course and course prerequisites, please visit the WiCell Web site at . If you have additional questions, call Lynn Schmidt at 263-7572.