Anne McLaren: Science, Ethics and the Archive

Learn about the life and work of the scientist Dame Anne McLaren as speakers including Baroness Warnock discuss her contributions to the development of IVF and the ethical debate over stem cell research.

Dame Anne McLaren (1927-2007) was one of Britain’s leading scientists in the field of developmental biology and her early research paved the way for the development of in vitro fertilisation (IVF) technologies and the birth of the first IVF baby Louise Brown in 1978. She was also a key contributor to the ethical debates surrounding IVF and stem cell research in the UK and to the formulation of public policy for their regulation.

Presented in partnership with the Anne McLaren Memorial Trust Fund this event features a keynote address delivered by the philosopher Mary Warnock (Baroness Warnock) with contributions from Elizabeth Robertson (Professor of Developmental Biology, Oxford) and Chris Hassan (Wellcome Trust) as well as a panel discussion and audience Q&A chaired by Sarah Franklin (Professor of Sociology, Cambridge). They will discuss Anne McLaren’s work as a scientist, her role in the development of IVF, and her contribution to public life including her work on the Warnock committee and the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority.

Speakers will also address the importance of the McLaren archive, held at the British Library, in understanding the contemporary history of developmental biology and IVF.

Enjoy food and drink purchased from the Knowledge Centre Bar from 18.00 and after the event until the Bar closes at 22.00.