The course "Ethics, biotechnology, and the future of human nature," is co-taught by HSCI Principal Faculty member, Michael Sandel, DPhil (above), and Doug Melton, PhD, Co-Director of HSCI.

Education is an essential component of the HSCI mission. Through targeted educational programs, and drawing on a wealth of expertise among its faculty from its medical and reseach institutions, the Institute aims to inform the public at large and inspire a new generation of scientists, physicians, ethicists, and policymakers. The educational programs are led by M. William Lensch, PhD, HSCI's Faculty Advisor for Education.

Undergraduates

HSCI faculty are involved in teaching more than 18 undergraduate and graduate level courses and seminars on topics ranging from basic stem cell biology to the ethical and societal values that are unique to stem cell research, while the HSCI Summer Undergraduate Research Internship Program continues to be a powerful, hands-on learning experience for students considering a career in stem cell science.

Graduate Students

HSCI is funding a Medical Scientist Training Fellowship for MD-PhD students with the intent of fostering a new breed of clinician-scientists with expertise in stem cells and regenerative medicine. Graduate and medical school courses taught by HSCI faculty provide a solid foundation in stem cell knowledge from basic biology and clinical applications to workshops and informal lunchtime seminars on medical ethics.

Scientists

The HSCI Fellowship at the Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study provides the opportunity for established scientists to expand their knowledge into new areas of stem cell research during their sabbatical year. The Fellowship not only facilitates the dissemination of HSCI know-how to the global stage, but it also injects new knowledge and ideas into the local research community.

Teachers

HSCI is dedicated to expanding and continually renewing it educational programs for teachers and high school students in the region and across the globe. During the past two summers HSCI has invited educators to attend a week-long Teachers Training Week, which covered stem cell science, its associated technology, and ethical issues.

Public

HSCI actively engages in informing the public about stem cell research at the regional and national level. The Institute has sponsored a series of public forums that have covered issues from the religious and ethical debate surrounding stem cell research to the advances in organ repair and regeneration. Frequently, our faculty are featured on National Public Radio, the New York Times, the Washington Post , the Wall Street Journal, Time Magazine and other national publications.

HSCI has also collaborated with the Department of Bioethics at the Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland to offer an intensive seminar on on ethical and policy issues on the Harvard University campus.