A noted geneticist will present the latest in cancer research Feb. 9 on NE Campus.
Sam Rhine will present the Genetic Update Conference 9 a.m.-1 p.m. in Center Corner (NSTU 1615A). At 6 p.m., he will return to present Recent Advances in Stem Cells Technology and Regenerative Medicine.
For 30 years, Rhine has visited high schools around the country to inform students and their teachers about how genes work.
He holds the up-to-date conferences to involve students in modern-day genetics through science. He talks about stem cell research, types of stem cells, cloning and gene control.
Rhine has brought his conference to TCC for the past several years at the invitation of Gary Smith, NE interim dean of teaching and learning. Smith has attended several conferences and seminars where Rhine spoke.
“He is really an interesting speaker,” Smith said.
During his TCC visit, Rhine will speak about the most recent advances in stem cell research and genetics. The morning conference will be divided into six 30-minute sessions ranging from Genome and EpiGenome to Your Personal DNA Chi and Producing Human Organs in the Laboratory.
Rhine requested the audience arrive on time and prepare for a short break midway through the conference.
Smith said Rhine dropped out of medical school about 30 years ago after he decided he had a calling to educate the masses about science, specifically genetics. Rhine keeps up with the latest research and then makes presentations for students to understand and perhaps decide to enter the field.
“I sit among the students during the presentations, and I always hear them say, ‘Oh wow! I didn’t know that,’’’ Smith said.
The event is free to all TCC students.
— Grant Norwood and Marley Malenfant
