Micro-Seminar: Stem cells and regenerative medicine: an update PART ONE

Micro-Seminars have two parts. Attendance to both parts is required. Registering for the PART ONE session will automatically enroll you in the PART TWO session on Friday.

Part 1: Thursday, August 22, 2024 from 3:00 – 4:30 pm (PST)
Part 2: Friday, August 23, 2024 from 10:00 – 11:30 am (PST)

Overview This micro-seminar will explore the exciting and rapidly evolving field of stem cell biology and its implications for regenerative medicine. Over two sessions, students will gain foundational knowledge about stem cells, their origins, the techniques used to study them, and the ethical considerations surrounding their use. The second session will focus on the therapeutic potential of stem cells and introduce students to ongoing research at USC. This seminar aims to equip first-year students with a basic understanding of the field and inspire interest in research activities at USC.

Expected Learning Outcomes By the end of the seminar, students will:
1. Understand the history and development of stem cell research.
2. Distinguish between embryonic and adult stem cells and their origins.
3. Be familiar with the techniques used to study stem cells.
4. Comprehend the ethical debates related to stem cell research.
5. Recognize the potential therapeutic applications of stem cells.
6. Gain insights into current stem cell research and opportunities for involvement at USC.

Day 1 Title: Introduction to Stem Cells and Their Study
• Welcome and Introduction
• History of Stem Cell Research
• Embryonic vs. Adult Stem Cells
• Origin of Embryonic Stem Cells
• Techniques in Stem Cell Research
• Ethical Considerations
• Q&A and Wrap-Up

Day 2 Title: Therapeutic Applications and Research Opportunities
• Key points and takeaways, questions from previous session
• Therapeutic Potential of Stem Cells
• Latest Discoveries at USC
• Pathways to Research at USC
• Programs, labs, and opportunities
• Q&A and Wrap-Up

Target Audience: Who Should Consider Attending This Seminar? This seminar is ideal for:
• First-year students with an interest in biology and regenerative medicine.
• Students curious about science policy and ethical considerations in research.
• Individuals seeking to pursue research activities and opportunities at USC.
• Those looking to gain foundational knowledge in a cutting-edge scientific field.

Lead By: Professor Francesca Mariani

Dr. Mariani is an Associate Professor at the Keck School of Medicine’s Broad Center for Stem Cell Research and Regenerative Medicine. With a strong background in stem cell biology, skeletal biology, and embryology, she leads a research team dedicated to understanding how cells make the correct decisions to build and repair the skeleton. Trained in Gail Martin’s lab, a co-discoverer of embryonic stem cells, Dr. Mariani's research encompasses the fundamental properties of pluripotent stem cells both in vivo and in vitro. In recognition of her outstanding contributions to education, she received the prestigious Associates Award for Teaching Excellence, the highest teaching honor at USC, last year.

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