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The field of life sciences is one of the most exciting
areas of study today — not just for the student preparing for
tomorrow’s career but also for the general public. With the
mapping of the human genome and all its implications for research
into who we are, what makes us tick and what causes us to become
sick, the public needs to be informed of developments more than at
any previous time. There are societal, ethical and political issues
at stake and only when the public is truly educated on these issues
of today’s research will scientists be guided by a ‘general
consensus.’
The Center for Life Sciences Education fosters faculty-community
projects developed in collaboration with neighborhoods, civic organizations,
social service agencies, the arts community, school systems, and
local and state governments as well as major industries, including
the engineering, microelectronics, computer, manufacturing, pharmaceutical,
chemical and biotechnology industries. These partnerships not only
involve faculty, they provide students with opportunities for internships,
cooperative education and service learning, as well as exposure to
the workforce of the 21st century. The center also reports on the
public’s values toward advances in the life sciences.
The
Center for Life Sciences Education conducts its programs, partnerships and
publications at three levels — the national, regional and local
levels — to serve the general adult public and K-12 teachers
and students.
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