Exploring the Boundaries of Human Reprogramming

What if we could change the fate of a human cell?

From understanding how cells acquire their identity to exploring how they might be reprogrammed to repair, regenerate and restore the human body, the science of reprogramming is challenging some of our most fundamental assumptions about biology.

Join us for the Inaugural National Stem Cell Foundation Oration in partnership with Adelaide University, featuring Professor Jose Polo, as we explore the remarkable possibilities —and profound questions—at the frontier of human reprogramming and stem cell biology.

How far can we push the boundaries of what a cell can become? What might this mean for the future of regenerative medicine, disease treatment and human health?

Exploring the Boundaries of Human Reprogramming will take you on a fascinating journey into the science, possibilities and ethical frontiers of one of the most exciting areas of modern medicine.

Tuesday 13 October 2026 5:30PM
G030, G/F Adelaide Health and Medical Sciences Building

This event is free and open to the public. We invite you to join us for an evening of discovery, ideas and a glimpse into the future of human health.

Reserve Your Spot Now!

There will be an opportunity to ask questions. Light refreshments will be served after the lecture.

About our presenter

Professor Jose Polo is Professor of Epigenetics and Director of the Adelaide Centre for Epigenetics at Adelaide University, Program Lead in Cancer Epigenetics at the South Australian ImmunoGENomics Cancer Institute (SAiGENCI) at Adelaide University, and Group Leader at the Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University. He also serves as Scientific Head of EMBL Australia. A globally recognised leader in epigenetics and stem cell biology, Professor Polo brings extensive expertise and a passion for advancing molecular biology research, both within Australia and globally.

Through his pioneering research, Professor Polo has made groundbreaking contributions to our understanding of cellular reprogramming – the process by which cells transform into different types. His work integrates cellular models, genomics, and computational approaches, driving advancements in stem cell science with far-reaching implications for both research and industry. In 2016, he co-founded Mogrify Pty Ltd to translate cell reprogramming technologies into clinical applications, bridging the gap between discovery and real-world impact.

His global influence on the field was recognised in 2024, when he was elected as a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Science.

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