Research Seminar: STEM Cells and Regenerative Medicine
Stem cells are remarkable cells capable of self-renewal and differentiation into various specialized cell types. These unique properties make them powerful tools in regenerative medicine, offering great potential for tissue repair and therapeutic applications. This course offers a systematic and up-to-date introduction to the field of stem cells and regenerative medicine, one of the most dynamic and promising areas in biomedical science.
Through lectures, discussions, and presentations, students will explore fundamental stem cell biology, current advances in regenerative medicine, and the translational potential of stem cell-based therapies. In addition, the course emphasizes critical thinking, scientific writing, and presentation skills to prepare students for future research opportunities.
Course Information
Prerequisites: None
Eligibility: Open to students in grades 9–12 with a minimum GPA of 3.5 who are interested in cancer biology
Course Format: Online
Schedule: 9 weeks, every Thursdays or Fridays' night
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, students will be able to:
- Understand the biological properties and classifications of stem cells
- Explore recent breakthroughs and clinical applications in regenerative medicine
- Develop scientific presentation and critical thinking skills
- Conduct literature searches and understand the basics of scientific paper writing
- Prepare for advanced research projects and manuscript development
Instructional Continuity
In the event of any class delay, rescheduling, or cancellation, students will be informed promptly via email. Be sure to check your email regularly for the latest announcements. Updated materials, assignments, and instructions will be provided to ensure uninterrupted learning.
Course Schedule
Session | Topic | Description |
Week 1 | Somatic Cells, Stem Cells, and Cancer Stem Cells | We will introduce three types of cells: somatic cells, stem cells and cancer stem cells. |
Week 2 | Introduction to Multipotent Stem Cells | In this section, you will learn about multipotent stem cells, including hematopoietic stem cells and mesenchymal stem cells. |
Week 3 | Stem Cell Application in Disease Study | Stem cell application in studying genetic diseases. |
Week 4 | Stem Cell Application in Regenerative Medicine and Drug Discovery | Stem cells can differentiate into a variety of somatic cells which could be used for disease treatment by repairing or replacing damaged/diseased cells, organs, or tissues. Another important application of stem cells is for drug discovery. |
Week 5 | Future Prospects in Stem Cells and Summary | All types of stem cells you have learned will be summarized and compared. |
Week 6 | Wet Lab research techniques | Typical Biological research techniques |
Week 7 | Stem Cell-based business | Currently, mesenchymal stem cells from different sources, such as cord blood or fat tissue, have been advertised everywhere for skin rejuvenation and lifespan extension. Are they a scam or real? In this part, you will learn about the current stem cell business, and FDA regulations in stem cell-based therapy. |
Week 8 | Scientific article writing and publishing | Without writing and publishing articles, your new findings have no way to be recognized by peers. In this part, you will learn the basics of scientific article writing skills and publishing procedures. |
Week 9 | Student presentation | Student presentation |
Should you have any questions, please email us at ask@thetaworks.academy.
INSTRUCTOR
Dr. Jay received his PhD in Biochemistry and molecular biology and has held postdoctoral and research assistant professor positions at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Currently, he is a full-time professor at Western University of Health Sciences.
Research Focus
With more than 25 years of experience in biomedical research, Dr. Jay specializes in cancer and stem cell signaling pathways, as well as innovative drug screening. He has authored over 50 peer-reviewed publications and book chapters including multiple articles in top-tier journals such as Cell Reports and Nature Cell Biology. He serves as a
reviewer for 28 academic journals and holds editorial board positions at three.Dr. Jay also holds three U.S. and international patents and has successfully developed four drug precursors that are now commercially available for research in the U.S. market.
Teaching and Mentorship
Dr. Jay has extensive teaching experience. He has taught core graduate-level courses such as Molecular Cell Biology and Biological Systems in Human Disease. In addition, he has led advanced coursework for high school students, including AP Biology, AP
Seminar, AP Research, Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, and Cancer Biology.CLASS TIME
This is an one hour virtual class meeting once a Week: Thursdays or Fridays, for 9 weeks
RECOMMENDED GRADES
Students in grades 9-12
RETURN & REFUND POLICY
Tuitions are not refundable. Students may transfer the class credit to other classes. Please contact us for details.
Class schedule is subject to change due to the instructor's availability and other emergencies.
By signing up for this session, students agree to the above policies.