EU project ESTOOLS

Health, Stem Cells, Regenerative Medicine

2006-2010

ESTOOLS was the largest European consortium of researchers studying human embryonic (ES) cells, and the first EU-funded project entirely focused on this field. The project aimed to develop the tools and knowledge for the industrial and medical applications of human ES cells.

More than 125 scientific publications have arisen from the ESTOOLSʼ work, many of which in top journals. After the discovery of human induced pluripotent stem (iPS) in 2007 the consortium included a program specifically aimed at studying these cells, becoming the first to receive EU funding in the field.

Coordination: University of Sheffield (Peter Andrews)

Role & achievements

Communication Manager

Helped the project to establish a strong, recognizable international identity. Coordinated public communication, press activities and outreach across the board. Produced press releases and other content arising from the project.

Sergio’s Notes

The use of embryonic stem cells was a very sensitive topic in the EU and the communication work with NeuroStemcell was part of a massive outreach effort with the companion EU-Project ESTOOLS where I was also a communication manager. Activities ranged from organizing lobby meetings at the EU Parliament to theatre plays and documentaries about stem cells and public discussions. Successfully handling sensitive topics and communicating scientifically-accurate information to the public required a combination of experience, teamwork, and ongoing collaboration with the researchers involved.