EMERGE (Embryo Model Ethics, Research Governance and Engagement) had its second meeting this week.
Over five days 46 people gathered from five continents to discuss stem cell-based embryo models. PET was represented at this meeting by Sarah Norcross and Sandy Starr.
This meeting built on the smaller group which they attended at the Brocher Foundation in Geneva last year.
The aim of this EMERGE meeting was to determine and agree how can stem cell-based embryo model research advance responsibly.
Kindly hosted by the Lorentz Center in Leiden, where the facilities were perfect for plenary sessions and the smaller breakout groups. But just as important there were two coffee machines and biscuits to keep the energy levels up!
There was no shortage of issues to discuss but the co-organisers Nienke de Graeff, Megan Munsie, Emma Cave, Naomi Moris, Nicolas Rivron and Martin Buck kept the group on track. While there was vigorous debate and disagreement the group managed to make a great deal of progress.
At the end of the week EMERGE had a vision and mission statement, a list of ideas for papers and collaborations. EMERGE also had a much clearer idea of what needs to be prioritised.
The PET team left with new insights, improved relationships with colleagues and plans to keep working together.
A massive thank you to the co-organisers for all the work to make this happen.