Stem cell researcher Jamie Thomson elected to National Academy of Sciences

Madison, Wis. - Jamie Thomson, the University of Wisconsin-Madison professor who first isolated and cultured human embryonic stem cells, is one of 72 new members elected to the National Academy of Sciences.

Thomson is the only Wisconsin scientist among the 72 new members. Ten years ago, Thomson was the first to learn how to isolate and grow human embryonic stem cells. More recently, he discovered how to create stem cells from adult cells by “re-programming” their gene expression profile.

New NAS members are elected in recognition of their distinguished and continuing achievements in original research.

In addition to the 72 new members from the United States, the academy announced the election of 18 foreign associates from 9 countries.

The National Academy of Sciences, established in 1863, is a private organization of scientists and engineers that acts as an official adviser to the federal government in matters of science and technology.

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