About WiCell
WiCell is a non-profit research institute established in 1999 to advance the science of stem cells. The organization is focused on enhancing and expanding the study of human pluripotent stem cells by supporting basic research; establishing research protocols; creating and distributing cell lines; providing training to scientists worldwide; and supporting efforts to unlock the therapeutic potential of stem cell technologies. As home to the first and only US National Stem Cell Bank (established in 2005), WiCell serves the worldwide scientific stem cell community through banking, characterization, and distribution of stem cell lines as well as providing technical support. Headquartered in Madison, Wisconsin, WiCell is a supporting organization of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, a world-leader in the area of human pluripotent stem cell research. A number of UW-Madison faculty members use laboratory space at WiCell to facilitate collaborative research between the institute and the university. WiCell employs a staff of 40, including scientists engaged in novel research to increase the understanding of basic stem cell biology and improve stem cell culture techniques, often in collaboration with UW research scientists. WiCell also runs an exceptional Education and Outreach program which provides training for scientists and offers educational programs for K-12 students and the general community. Our Mission The mission of WiCell is to support stem cell research, clinical development, and education at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and worldwide. History of WiCell For many years, scientists tried to isolate and grow human embryonic stem cells. In 1999, Dr. James Thomson, Ph.D., V.M.D., a researcher at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, successfully established and sustained several independent cell lines in culture. It was the first time anyone had succeeded in culturing these miraculous cells. Dr. Thomson now serves as WiCell's Scientific Director. More Information WiCell Factsheet(pdf) |
