Stem cell research has long since found its way onto the biology curriculum. However, stem cell research also offers many opportunities for interesting lessons in subjects such as philosophy, politics, and religion. With various formats, we help schools to present the topic in a lively and research-oriented manner as we consider the social discourse on stem cell research to be one of the core tasks of the Stem Cell Network North Rhine-Westphalia. Our services range from workshops in class and insights into research in the laboratory to a range of digital services that teachers can use to prepare and illustrate their lessons. You will find our short introductory films “Typical stem cell” here in our media library as an introduction to the topic.

UniStem Day

A Europe-wide activity day on stem cell research for schoolchildren has been taking place in March since 2009. Germany has been participating since 2016 with various events, many of which take place in North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) and were hosted by the members of the Stem Cell Network NRW. UniStem Day is intended to deepen the knowledge about stem cell research taught at schools, arouse the curiosity of pupils, and provide insights into research practice. If you are interested in participating in the next UniStem Day with your school pupils, please contact us at office@gscn.org.

Links & Downloads

More than 100 resources for lessons and teaching materials. Suitable not only for teachers, but also for research centers, museums, and public events.
https://www.eurostemcell.org/landing/education-resources

Four teaching units about basic principles fo stem cell research, ethics, therapy and genetics. The material includes explanatory texts, articles, graphics, task sheets and teaching procedures on the subject of stem cells.
https://www.understanding-stemcells.info/

Basic facts about stem cells and a glossary.
https://www.closerlookatstemcells.org/learn-about-stem-cells/stem-cell-basics/

Exploring Stem Cells for Secondary Schools.
https://www.eurostemcell.org/exploring-stem-cells-secondary-schools-curam

ISSCR syllabus and learning guide “Introduction to Stem Cell Biology” (8 modules)
https://www.isscr.org/scientific-clinical-resources/education-resources