Introduction

Danish Stem Cell Research Doctoral School (DASCDOC) was established January 1, 2003 by a 5-year grant from the National Research Agency after application to the Danish Research Training Council. The application followed the founding in April 2002 of the Danish Center for Stem Cell Research through a 5-year research grant from the National Research Agency.

DASCDOC is interdisciplinary, consisting so far of 23 research groups from Danish universities and university hospitals, veterinary research institutions, sector research institutions, and biotechnology industry.

The aim of the Doctoral School is to train PhDs in the field of stem cell research and related technologies, including developmental biology and cell replacement therapies in regenerative medicine.

The focal areas are early embryonic development, transgene technologies, and stem cell isolation and differentiation in relation to stem cell-based therapies including brain, liver, pancreas, intestines, mesenchymal tissues (skeletal muscle, cartilage, bone, heart) and the blood and the immune system. Stem cell sources are tissue-derived, adult or fetal stem cells from the corresponding tissues and organs and umbilical cord blood, as well as embryonic stem cells derived from the early embryon of rodents, domestic animals and, after Sept. 1, 2003, also human embryonic stem cells.

The activities aim to gather Danish PhD students, supervisors and other basic science and clinical researchers in the field of stem cell research in a joint, nationwide PhD research training program, including advanced PhD-courses, summerschools and joint meetings on tissue-derived ("adult" and "fetal") stem cells, embryonic stem cells, the necessary technologies and ethical aspects.

The doctoral school has an International Advisory Board with scientific experts from the very front of stem cell research and related technologies.

Objectives

To train Danish and foreign PhD students engaged in stem cell research and related technologies and fields at an international high, competitive level,
To take a leading position in Danish stem cell research, supporting interdisciplinary interaction and approaches in basic and applied sciences,
To maintain and promote a high standard of ethics and stimulate interaction with the public and political life by providing a knowledge base for discussions and decisions,
To collaborate where relevant and possible with corresponding Nordic, European and international centers and research training programs.

Vision

To be the leading national platform for interdisciplinary research training in stem cell research and related technologies.