Introduction to stem cells.- General ethical issues of stem cell research.- Technological challenges.- Stem cell growth and differentiation.- Stem cell therapeutic applications.- Bioreactors and bioprocesses for cell expansion and differentiation.- High throughput and microfluidic screening platforms.- Stem cell identification and sorting.- Intercellular signaling and engineered niches.- Novel approaches for embryonic and adult stem cell growth and differentiation.- Stem cells and drug discovery.- Screening platforms.