October 16, 2003

Program examines science that’s changing quality of life

Northwestern faculty members will discuss in nontechnical language the recent developments in genetics, stem cell medicine and nanotechnology during the Northwestern Alumni Association interactive program “Small is Big: Science That’s Changing the Quality of Your Life.”

The Northwestern Explores Series program, which is open to the public, will be held from 9 a.m. to noon, Saturday, Oct. 18, at Norris University Center.

The deciphering of the human genome sequence and the ability to manipulate genetic information will be discussed by Rex L. Chisholm, director of the Center for Genetic Medicine and Adam and Richard T. Lind Professor of Medical Genetics, Cell and Molecular Biology.

Nanotechnology and the new Center for Nanofabrication and Molecular Self-Assembly will be the topic of Mark Ratner, Charles E. and Emma H. Morrison Professor of Chemistry.

The potential for using stem cell therapies for treating diseases will be discussed by John A. Kessler, M.D., Benjamin and Virginia T. Boshes Professor of Neurology and chair of neurology.

Fees are $20 for the general public or $15 for Northwestern University Club of Chicago members. For reservations, call (847) 491-7975. Registration will be available online at www.alumni.northwestern.edu/education.