Assistant Professor, Georgia Institute of Technology
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Having trained in both biology and public policy, my research
focuses on the interface of biomedical research, bioethics and public policy. Within this broad area, I am
particularly interested in using empirical approaches
to assess the impact of ethical controversy and public policy on the biomedical research enterprise. Current topics of interest include: Ethical Controversy and Stem Cell Research Policy Human embryonic stem cells are a controversial, but potentially powerful, biomedical research tool. Because of the controversy surrounding their use, they have been the subject of a number of significant public policy decisions. As a result, stem cell research is governed by an atypically heterogeneous and uncertain policy environment. My research utilizes a variety of data sources and methodological approaches to understand the impact of ethical controversy and public policy on this field. My research interests in this area range from the impact of ethical disagreements on the geographic distribution of stem cell research and the career development of stem cell scientists to the challenges associated with the translation of basic stem cell research, using embryonic or adult stem cells, to the clinic. [Stem Cell Policy Resources] Ethics and Self-Regulation in the Fertility Industry In the three decades since the first child was born using in vitro fertilization, this technique has grown in popularity and now accounts for more than 1% of all babies born in the United States and many other developed countries. Despite the popularity of assisted reproductive technologies, the practice of fertility medicine faces few federal regulations in the United States and instead the industry relies heavily on self-regulation. My research examines the effectiveness of this self-regulatory approach. My initial work in this area has focused on the oversight of gamete donation for in vitro fertilization. Ongoing work examines a range of other issues, including restrictions on access to treatment and embryo transfer decisions. |