Oxford University

THE UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD, also known as Oxford University, is located in Oxford, England. It is the oldest English—speaking university, having records dating to the 13th century. The university is composed of 39 colleges and seven permanent private halls. Research on stem cell science is carried out within the scientific theme of Developmental and Stem Cell Biology within the Division of Medical Sciences (DMS), as well as the Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, a department within the DMS.

The DMS is the largest of Oxford's four academic divisions; the other three divisions are humanities; mathematical, physical, and life sciences; and social sciences. Within the DMS, there are numerous departments tailored to specific fields of the medical sciences. Additionally, there are research themes, including that of Developmental and Stem Cell Biology. Within other research themes, some scientific laboratories do carry out work related to stem cells and stem cell biology; however, the majority of the work on stem cells is carried out in the Dunn School of Pathology.

Spanning the research areas of immunology, cell biology and pathology, molecular biology, and molecular microbiology, scientists at the Dunn School work to understand genetic and other molecular mechanisms behind cell division and proliferation, including DNA replication, RNA transcription, and protein translation. Even when a particular laboratory does not focus directly on stem cells, the knowledge gained may be pivotal to understanding the maintenance, proliferation, and differentiation of stem cells. Some labs do work directly with stem cells; for example, Professor Paul Fairchild at the Dunn School is working to understand the immunological barriers to stem cell transplantation. Donated stem cells may be rejected by the immune system of the recipient; the Fairchild group works to avoid that rejection.

Especially considering that the United States has strict restrictions on public funding for stem cell research, the United Kingdom is taking advantage of its position to become a leader in international stem cell research. For this reason, Oxford University is actively seeking research fellows with expertise in stem cell biology. In 2005 Dr. Kenneth Fleming stated that key research areas for future fellows would include stem cell biology. In 2006 the Research Plan announced by the DMS included stem cell biology as a priority as well. Additionally, the ethics of stem cell biology are discussed in campus classes as well as at special events focusing on current scientific issues.

Oxford University, home to some of the world's great libraries, like the Bodleian, is making stem cell research a priority.