Hot java and a hot topic: 'science café' to explore stem-cell research

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Source: Mark Weiss, 785-532-4520, mlweiss@k-state.edu
News release prepared by: Andy Badeker, 785-532-6415, abadeker@k-state.edu

Friday, May 18, 2007

HOT JAVA AND A HOT TOPIC: 'SCIENCE CAFÉ' TO EXPLORE STEM-CELL RESEARCH

MANHATTAN -- Cookies, coffee and stem cells: A "science café" planned for May 25 at the K-State Student Union will take a casual approach to encouraging members of the public to engage with researchers.

Jurgen Hescheler, a professor with the Institute of Neurophysiology at the University of Cologne, Germany, will be the guest speaker, but don't expect a lectern or a lecture. "Science cafés" are intended as lively, informal discussions, said Mark Weiss, a professor of anatomy and physiology at K-State's College of Veterinary Medicine.

Weiss modeled the event, the first on campus, on similar get-togethers in Europe. The format is open, he said, but Hescheler will get the ball rolling and Weiss will moderate as needed.

Hescheler's lab is one of the very few allowed to work on embryonic stem cells in Germany, Weiss said. Hescheler is particularly interested in how such cells might lead to treatments for heart attack, stroke and diabetes.

The free event will be 7-9 p.m. Friday, May 25, in the Union's Little Theater. Coffee and dessert will be served. Sponsors are Sigma Xi, the scientific research society, and the Midwest Institute for Comparative Stem Cell Biology.