Stem cells are cells that can divide indefinitely, forming other stem cells or specialized cells, such as skin, muscle, heart, brain or any other type of cells with a specific function. Stem cell division is a terribly important process that ensures correct development of the organism. In this talk you will learn about the science of stem cells, with a particular focus on the ones that populate the brain. I will present cutting edge research about major neurodevelopmental clinical conditions that are caused by defects in the process of brain stem cell division, and how stem cells could possibly be used as therapeutic treatment of human diseases.

About Chiara Bertipaglia

Dr. Chiara Bertipaglia is the Scientific Program Manager at Columbia University’s Zuckerman Institute, and Know Science Vice President. She produces scientific, technical and professional development programs for early career scientists, helping them to find their career path. She was a research scientist until August 2018 at the Columbia University Irving Medical Center, doing cutting-edge research on brain stem cells. She holds a BSc and MSc degree in Cell and Molecular Biology from the University of Rome Tor Vergata, and a PhD in Structural and Computational Biology from the European Molecular Biology Laboratory. As a AAAS Community Engagement Fellow, she advocates for scientists’ success and work-life balance in healthy and safe STEM communities.

These talks are geared toward an adult audience. Advance registration recommended. For more information, please contact [email protected].

Know Science is excited to partner with Columbia's Zuckerman Institute. As scientists who are a part of Know Science, we are excited to disseminate our knowledge and expertise through engagement with the public — the Zuckerman Institute’s mission and commitment to public advocacy provides us with the perfect platform for our speakers. Come discover cutting edge research in neuroscience!