EMERGE was born in Geneva during a workshop at the Brocher Foundation, entitled Research with Human Stem Cell-Based Embryo Models: Defining Ethical Boundaries, where a group of scholars from diverse disciplines—including bioethics, law, and developmental biology—came together to explore the questions emerging from this rapidly evolving area of research.
SCBEMs offer unprecedented opportunities to deepen our understanding of early human development. At the same time, they challenge existing ethical frameworks, regulatory boundaries, and public expectations about what it means to study and model human life. EMERGE aims to serve as a space where these tensions can be examined constructively and collaboratively.
Through joint initiatives, the network seeks to foster responsible, reflective, and inclusive approaches to SCBEM research that respect both scientific innovation and societal values. Further information about EMERGE, its members, and upcoming activities will be available soon. Stay tuned for updates as we build this vibrant community at the intersection of science, ethics, and society.
Ana's research focusses on exploring the ethical ramifications of stem cell-derived gametes (SCDGs) and contributing to the development of tangible guidelines, capable of harnessing the potential of SCDGs as valuable research tools, whilst remaining conscientious of morally and legally acceptable practices.
Garðar's research focuses on ethics and philosophy of science and technology, and the philosophy of education.
Sarah Chan is an interdisciplinary bioethicist whose research explores the ethics of emerging modes of biomedicine. She works actively to engage scientists, policymakers, and wider publics in discussions around these issues.
David is a bioethicist by background researching ethical, legal, and policy implications of emerging biotechnologies, including neurotechnologies, implantable devices, and human enhancement. He has other research interests in bioethics and the medical law more generally, with a current project focussing on the creation of new lifeforms through synthetic biology. He is an editor for the journals Clinical Neuroethics and Cambridge Quarterly of Healthcare Ethics.
Kirstin's research focuses on ethical and policy issues related to biomedicine. Specifically, in emerging technologies including vaccines, stem cells, human embryo research, as well as how the federal government funds and gets advice on science research.
Naomi's research focuses on how cells make fate decisions, and in particular, how these decisions are coordinated between cells to give rise the patterns that arise through development.
