Director's Message | Winter 2024-2025

As director of the UCLA Broad Stem Cell Research Center, I am continuously inspired by the transformative potential of stem cell research. From fundamental discoveries to groundbreaking therapies, our field represents hope and possibility for millions. Yet, amidst this progress, one element remains indispensable — trust. Trust in the integrity of science, trust in the rigor of our methods, and trust in the ethical principles that guide our work.

In today’s world, where misinformation can reach millions with the click of a button, maintaining public confidence in science is more crucial than ever. As scientists, we know that it is our responsibility to earn that trust. At UCLA, we understand that earning trust requires transparency, accountability, and clear and balanced communication about the impact of our research. Whether it’s addressing ethical considerations, explaining complex findings in accessible terms, or engaging with diverse communities, we are committed to fostering an environment where science is not only understood but embraced for the progress it represents. 

Writing in the New York Times recently, the economist Emily Oster explores how experts’ messages around public health risks can backfire when they oversimplify complex scientific evidence or take overly rigid stances. Using the measles vaccine, raw milk, and water fluoridation as timely examples, Oster argues that overstating risks (in the case of raw milk) or dismissing them outright (as with the measles vaccine or water fluoridation) can erode public trust. When health officials present issues as firmly settled without room for discussion, the general public — receiving conflicting information from other sources — may lose confidence in the experts’ recommendations. 

Oster advocates for a more nuanced approach in which health officials emphasize the preponderance of evidence for any given issue, acknowledge uncertainty, and recognize that thoughtful people may come to different conclusions and thus make different decisions. She recognizes that this strategy might lead to some imperfect but preferable outcomes. For example, a less intransigent position on the risks of raw milk might lead to more illnesses from increased consumption, but it could also bolster trust, potentially leading to a higher rate of measles vaccination. 

In that spirit, we at the Center remain dedicated to open and honest dialogue. We acknowledge the limits of our technologies and the uncertainties around emerging therapies, and we will not shy away from tough questions and frank discussions. Your belief in our work empowers us to push boundaries responsibly and compassionately. It is a trust we strive to earn not just once, but continuously. 

Thank you for believing in our work and for supporting the vital mission of advancing science for a healthier, brighter future. Together, we can ensure that the breakthroughs of today and tomorrow truly serve all of humanity.

Thomas Rando, MD, PhD
Director, UCLA Broad Stem Cell Research Center
Professor of Neurology and Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology