April 1, 2021 (CAMBRIDGE, MA) – Today marks the first day of the 2021 Cambridge Science Festival which celebrates the impact of science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM). As part of the Festival which showcases events that make science accessible, interactive, and fun, MassBioEd will be hosting the following events.

Careers in Biotechnology Discussion on April 2nd is part of MassBioEd’s monthly series, “Topics in Biotechnology Discussion” designed to deepen teachers’ understanding of topics common to biotechnology classes and topics in the news. MassBioEd’s Director of Talent and Workforce Development, Karla Talanian, will lead a presentation and discussion focused on what future careers in the life sciences will look like and what skills students should be learning now. Educators including guidance and administrative staff are welcome.

MassBioEd Career Exploration Week, April 12th to April 16th, consists of five virtual events, hosted by life sciences companies and academic institutions. Students will learn from professionals about the various careers in the industry and engage in a lab tour or demonstration. Host organizations include Arranta Bio, MilliporeSigma, Northeastern University, Thermo Fisher Scientific, and Valo Health.

Beyond the Basics of Biotechnology, April 12th to April 23rd, is a teacher training workshop. Teachers will manipulate sequences using SnapGene Viewer, a free online program, practice PCR primer design, and learn about different DNA and cloning methods. Additionally, participants will explore the BLAST Sequence Analysis Tool and review gel electrophoresis techniques.

Both the Careers in Biotechnology Discussion and Beyond the Basics of Biotechnology teacher training workshop offer teachers professional development points (PDPs). Director of Biotechnology Education Programs, Michelle Mischke, shared why the Festival is valuable to be a part of.

“We are excited to open our trainings up to the Cambridge Science Festival audience this year. In addition to exciting workshops for educators, MassBioEd is hosting a series of one-hour virtual career events each day during the week of April 12th- 16th. These virtual events will showcase life science companies and academic institutions and will give participants a chance to learn about various careers in the life sciences industry. Each day will include a career panel/presentation and an interactive company lab tour/demonstration. These events are open to high school and college students, educators, and parents.”

For more information about the Cambridge Science Festival, visit https://cambridgesciencefestival.org/.

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About the MassBioEd Foundation

The MassBioEd Foundation (MassBioEd) is a 501(c)(3) charitable non-profit organization. Its mission is to build a sustainable life sciences workforce in the region through educational programs that engage and excite teachers, inspire and propel students, and illuminate the pathway from the classroom to career with a focus on expansion, opportunity and diversity. Learn more: http://www.massbioed.org.