Two of Britain's leading scientists will be speaking on Thursday night as part of the Cambridge Science Festival.

When a breakthrough in medical research grabs the headlines, the hard work doesn't stop there. It often takes many years to develop a new discovery into a treatment that could be used to save thousands of lives.

In “Science in the Real World and Stem Cell Science” (Thursday, 15 March, 7.30 pm, Lady Mitchell Hall), Professor Colin Blakemore will discuss what lies ahead for researchers who make a potentially important finding in the lab.

Professor Blakemore will be joined by Professor Austin Smith, Director of the Wellcome Trust Centre for Stem Cell Research (pictured), who will explain his work in the exciting area of stem cells.

Based at Oxford University, Professor Blakemore is the Chief Executive of the Medical Research Council, a publicly-funded organisation that supports research across the medical sciences.

A phenomenal achiever, he completed his PhD at the University of California in just 30 months, and worked at the Department of Physiology at the University of Cambridge for 11 years.

In his mid-30s, he was appointed Waynflete Professor of Physiology at Oxford University. He has been president of many professional bodies while continuing his research.

Professor Blakemore's career in science communication has been equally impressive. At the age of 32, he became the youngest person to present BBC Radio 4's Reith lectures. The Royal Society honoured his contribution to science communication by awarding him the 1989 Michael Faraday prize, the premier prize for science communication.

Stem cell science has the potential to become one of the greatest new technologies in medical care. Stem cells are the master cells that can develop into any type of cell required by the body. It is hoped that they have the potential to replace damaged cells in Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and diabetes.

Professor Austin Smith is one of the country's leading experts in stem cell science. After establishing a stem cell research group at the University of Edinburgh, he moved to the University of Cambridge to head the Wellcome Trust Centre for Stem Cell Research.

He has been instrumental in advising the government's approach to stem cell science, helping to ensure that the UK remains at the forefront of this field of research.

“Science in the Real World and Stem Cell Science” takes place at the Lady Mitchell Hall, Sidgwick Avenue on March 15 at 7.30pm. Entrance is free with no need to book. On-street parking nearby.

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