Area residents are getting an opportunity to ask doctors and scientists questions about stem cell research.

The research has come under fire in the past because of some of the procedures used to harvest embryos.

That's why coordinators of the central Wisconsin Ethics of Stem Cell research conference are hoping to inform people about new technology that provides a less invasive approach.

Chair Member of the Bioethics Committee says. “Historically it has been the way that the stem cells were harvested and the controversy surround the harvest."

But scientists say changes in procedures have changed the way they harvest these cells, and medical professionals say that new technology has created a less invasive approach.

University of Wisconsin-Marathon County Philosophy Professor Mark Brown says, “It would mean that it would not be necessary to destroy embryos in order to get stem cells."

During the Central Wisconsin Ethics of Stem Cell Research Conference guest speakers will talk to other professionals and community members who have questions about the controversial issue.

"You not only have the conservative approach but you have the liberal approach and we thought offering the broad spectrum of all the approaches of all the knowledge out there allows the people to choose that information on their own,” says Losinksi.

He also says the conference will provide information that will be available for everyone to understand.

Governor Jim Doyle also agrees with efforts to further pursue stem cell research here in Wisconsin.

Governor Jim Doyle says, "Wisconsin is just one of the emerging leaders and this is an enormous opportunity not only to work, but to cure illnesses people long thought to be incurable and also create a lot of very good jobs."

"Understand that there are a number of justifiable, defensible, points of view on this issue that are not all simple or black and white,” says Professor Brown.

The conference will be held Tuesday afternoon at the Westwood Center in Wausau, followed by a night session at the UWMC Theater beginning at 7 p.m.