SoSS professor to Chair working group reviewing 14-day rule for human embryo research
Congratulations to Professor Sarah Devaney who has been named Chair of the project by Nuffield Council on Bioethics.
Sarah Devaney, Professor of Healthcare Law and Regulation, has been announced by Nuffield Council on Bioethics (NCOB) as Chair of its working group for a project reviewing the 14-day rule for human embryo research. The current law means that human embryos can only be cultured in a UK laboratory for a maximum of 14 days, but scientists suggest that by extending this, we could gain a better understanding of healthy development and miscarriages.
Sarah will work collaboratively with an interdisciplinary group to provide decision-makers with the independent evidence they need to better understand arguments for and against extensions to the 14-day limit on human embryo research. The project, which is funded by a grant from Wellcome, will consist of four phases and will result in insights intended to support government in making evidence-based decisions on whether to review the current law.
I am delighted to be embarking on this important work with NCOB and colleagues on this interdisciplinary working group. The 14-day rule has played a crucial role in setting the ethical, social and legal boundaries of human embryo research nationally and internationally. Scientific advances mean the time is right to provide independent advice on arguments relating to any changes to this limit.
The project will be completed in approximately 18 months and any insights will be shared as they are gathered.