University of Rochester students have organized a series of events to raise funds during Stem Cell Research Awareness Week, presented by the Society of Undergraduate Biology Students.

Through the silent auction, students are hoping to fund a drug re-purposing trial to aid in the treatment of traumatic brain injury.

The Society of Undergraduate Biology Students began hosting fundraisers five years ago when student Katie Medford '09 was inspired to raise awareness and support for stem cell research in honor of her father, who suffered a spinal cord injury in 2002. Their events have raised a total of $18,000, which was donated to the University of Rochester's Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Institute.

Stem Cell Research Awareness Week runs from Monday, April 11 through Friday, April 15. The events are:

Lecture: The Current State of Stem Cell Research
Monday, April 11 from 6 to 8 p.m., Gown Room in Wilson Commons
Mark Noble, professor of genetics and neurology and anatomy at URMC and William FitzPatrick, associate professor of philosophy, will speak about the current state of stem cell research from biomedical and ethical perspectives. Free pizza and refreshments will be provided. Co-sponsored by Delta Upsilon Fraternity.

Silent Auction
Tuesday, April 12 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Hirst Lounge in Wilson Commons
Merchandise from Rochester area businesses, including gift certificates, fine jewelry, and vouchers for Princeton Review and Kaplan exam preparation courses will be up for bid throughout the day. Entertainment includes performances by the Ballet Performance Group and the UR Pep Band.

Car Bash
Wednesday, April 13 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Wilson Quad
The University community is invited to relieve some stress by smashing a car with a sledge hammer. Participants can take three swings for a dollar (flex will be accepted). Co-sponsored by Sigma Chi Fraternity.

Film Screening: Gattaca
Friday, April 14 at 2 p.m., Gleason Theatre
Set in the future, the film Gattaca explores the story of a man with a congenital heart condition who tries to assume the identity of a former athlete to fulfill his dream of traveling in space.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: For a complete list of events, visit the group's Facebook page. Media interested in covering any of the on-campus events can call Melissa Greco Lopes at 585.260.6666 or email mgrecolo@ur.rochester.edu.