Gearhart, John

DR. JOHN GEARHART is a leading scientist in human genetics and an advocate for embryonic stem cell research. His numerous accolades include an induction in 1999 into the Academy of Achievement, a nonprofit museum of living history located in Washington, D.C. Gearhart works on stem cells derived from fetal tissue yet actively supports federal funding for embryonic stem cells. His chief argument in favor of using fetal tissue from abortion clinics is that this tissue would be discarded otherwise. At present, when he obtains tissue for research, there is no contact between the donating woman, who has signed a consent form, and the researchers. The woman is not financially rewarded in any way, nor is anyone involved in the transfer process.

Gearhart grew up in Girard ...