The First Seven Days

This three-day program focused on early human development – from the formation of gametes to the genesis of embryonic stem cells. Revolutionary advances in cell biology, genetics, epigenetics, and nuclear transplantation promise new strategies for diagnosing and overcoming infertility, as well as novel stem cell technologies for treating degenerative diseases. This meeting provided a rare gathering of basic and clinical experts in embryology and stem cell biology who presented their work and discussed the challenges of translating scientific knowledge into practical applications in medicine. An international faculty of research leaders addressed these topics in an attractive and informal environment for a limited number of registrants. The scientific committee designed the program to facilitate full engagement by young investigators. There was ample opportunity for networking, meeting senior faculty, and discussing research. The Georgeanna Seegar Jones Young Investigator Prize and other awards were given to the lead author of the best papers in the free communication sessions adjudicated by an expert panel.

The official language of the symposim was English.