hESCreg Structure and Partners

Work Packages - WPs
The project work is thematically divided into 5 dedicated Work Packages:

WP 1: Scientific content management, Identification and implementation of scientific requirements/registration criteria for hESC lines listed in the registry
WP 2: Technical development, design and implementation of the registry database and Internet access, service functions
WP 3: Development of quality assessment and control standards, access and tracing procedures
WP 4: Development of hESC annotation processes and dissemination
WP 5: Project management

Steering Committee - StC

12 National Contacts from all European Union member states where the derivation of human embryonic stem cells (hESC) or research on which is currently allowed, plus those from Switzerland and Israel form the Steering Committee of the registry. It constitutes the bridge to the national research communities und provides updates on the scientific and legal developments in their countries as well as on the cell lines that are available. If new countries become eligible to hESC derivation or research, then national representatives will be appointed for these countries to join the Steering Committee.

Scientific Advisory Board - SAB

17 leading European and non-European scientists from the field of hESC research constitute the Scientific Advisory Board of the registry. This will advise on and assure the scientific and technical quality of the registry and supervise the project on collaborations with other registries and initiatives. The composition of the Scientific Advisory Board may evolve during the life span of the project depending on specific needs.

Ethics Advisory Board - EAB

An independent Ethics Advisory Board ensures that all activities of hESCreg are in compliance with the fundamental ethical priciples applicable to the field of hESC research in Europe. It liaises closely with the Project Management, Steering Committee and Scientific Advisory board and will issue appropriate ethical guidance. The hESCreg Ethics Advisory Borad is constituted of experts in Bioethics of international reputation.