Genetic Update Conference focuses on cancer research

Basic concepts of human cancer, stem cells and human tissue engineering will be the primary focuses of the 11th annual Genetic Update Conference taking place November 10 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. on the Grand Valley State University Allendale Campus.

Margo Dill, Regional Math and Science Center program director, said the conference, taking place in the Kirkhof Center Grand River Room, aims to inform high school students and their teachers about the rapidly evolving advancements and careers in medicine and genetics research.

Sam Rhine, annual keynote speaker for the conference and medical physician, will give multiple lectures discussing medical advances and social issues in the realm of genetics.

“Although some of Dr. Rhine’s topics are sometimes mentioned by the mainstream media sources, most of what you hear and understand from his lectures is work that he has gleamed from countless medical journals, technical research papers, colleagues and friends, and medical conferences,” said Dill. “He has a very concise way of synthesizing this information into something that is very exciting and understandable for the public.”

Dill said the conference is a way for students to learn about advances in medicine and engage them to become more motivated to pursue these medical fields as possible career choices.

Rhine has traveled the globe for more than 30 years presenting the latest genetic information to high school students and their teachers.

Registration is required for the conference. For more information and to register, visit www.samrhine.com and click on Schedule.