California ramps up stem cell plans

US researchers are grappling with the issue of human embryonic stem cell research, in the face of severe restrictions in federal funding and lobby groups opposed to it. But California is forging ahead, following the November vote that gave support to an ambitious plan over the next ten years. Bolstering their plans, Robert Dynes, president of the University of California, is due to arrive in Britain next month to meet alumni and other key researchers on plans to create and fund the new stem cell research centre. Dynes, who is credited with turning Arnold Schwarzenegger, the governor of California, on to science, told reporters he was hoping to 'sniff out' talent. " I'd be interested in 28-year-olds and big names too; you need to take the whole spectrum. We want people with a really good idea that is off the wall. " A major conference is planned next month in Anaheim to discuss stem cell research and bolster the state's plans. administration opposes human embryonic stem cell research, but last November Californians broke away and voted for a state initiative known as Proposition 71, which committed $3 billion over ten years to stem cell research. Dynes hopes this financial backing will put California at the forefront of stem cell research globally. But he stressed that research cash and impressive facilities would not be the only benefits for researchers who chose to relocate. " What I will do is tell young researchers that California is the most innovative, diverse and risk-taking society in the world, " he said. While other states consider their position on the controversial issue of human embryonic stem cell research, California is forging ahead with a major scientific meeting planned for May and recruitment of overseas researchers for its new institute. Nigel Williams reports. Points ahead: California is taking the lead on human embryonic stem cell research in the US in the face of federal restrictions on what work can be funded. Plans for a new institute are well advanced and the president of the University of California is planning a trip abroad next month to help recruit scientists.