Programs

Access Biotechnology Program

Building the Next Generation of Life Sciences Leaders

Access Biotechnology is an after-school program that engages high school students in underserved and under-resourced communities and prepares them for success in higher education and careers in the life sciences. Through hands-on laboratory experiences, career exploration opportunities, individualized coaching, and industry connections, students gain the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to pursue pathways in biotechnology and related STEM fields.

The program builds on MassBioEd’s successful ACCESS (Aligned Curricular and Career Experiences in Secondary Science) initiative, which has supported middle and high school students through educator training, classroom resources, and career-connected learning experiences. Access Biotechnology extends this impact beyond 9th grade, helping students navigate the critical transition from high school to college and the workforce.

Why Access Biotechnology?

Many students are interested in science but have limited exposure to real-world biotechnology careers, professional mentors, and hands-on laboratory experiences. Access Biotechnology addresses these barriers by providing authentic learning experiences and direct connections to professionals working across the life sciences industry.

Students gain:

  • Hands-on biotechnology laboratory experience
  • Exposure to life sciences careers and educational pathways
  • Access to industry professionals and mentors
  • Guidance on internships, college preparation, and career planning
  • Opportunities to develop workforce-ready skills and confidence

Program Goals

Through participation in Access Biotechnology, students will:

  • Develop practical biotechnology and laboratory skills
  • Explore careers in the life sciences industry
  • Increase awareness of educational and training opportunities
  • Build college and career readiness skills
  • Receive personalized coaching and mentoring
  • Prepare for internships, summer programs, and future employment

Ultimately, the program aims to increase persistence in STEM education, strengthen college readiness, expand awareness of life sciences career opportunities, and contribute to a more diverse and inclusive life sciences workforce.

Program Components

Each participating school receives a comprehensive set of activities designed to support student learning, career exploration, and future success.

After-School Biotechnology Lab

Students participate in engaging, hands-on laboratory sessions focused on topics relevant to today’s biotechnology industry, including:

  • Human health and disease
  • Forensic science
  • Genetics and biotechnology
  • Agricultural and livestock breeding applications
  • Biopharmaceutical research concepts

These experiences supplement classroom learning while helping students develop technical skills and confidence in laboratory settings.

Career Exploration Panels & Company Visits

Students connect directly with professionals working throughout the life sciences ecosystem.

Program activities include:

  • Industry career panels
  • Small-group networking and Q&A sessions
  • Professional mentorship opportunities
  • Visits to biotechnology and life sciences companies

Through these experiences, students gain firsthand insight into a wide range of career paths and workplace environments.

Internship Advisory Session

Internships and summer programs provide valuable experience that strengthens both college applications and career readiness.

During this session, students receive:

  • Information about available internship and summer opportunities
  • Access to MassBioEd’s curated internship database
  • Application guidance and planning support
  • Resume and application review assistance
  • Strategies for identifying opportunities that align with their interests

Students leave with a clearer understanding of how to pursue meaningful hands-on experiences beyond the classroom.

College Access Advisory Session

This interactive workshop helps students understand and navigate postsecondary education options.

Topics include:

  • College planning and admissions
  • Affordable pathways to higher education
  • Degree and certificate options
  • Resume development
  • Personal statement and application writing
  • Interview preparation and mock interviews

The session empowers students to view higher education as an attainable and worthwhile next step toward their goals.

Optional Biotechnology Microcredentials

Students may also have the opportunity to earn industry-recognized biotechnology microcredentials through the Bioscience Core Skills Institute (BCSI).

These stackable credentials validate skills sought by employers and provide an alternative pathway into biotechnology careers.

Available credentials include:

  • Safety: Hazard Assessment
  • Documentation and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
  • Numeracy
  • Aseptic Technique
  • Small Volume Metrology

MassBioEd instructors can prepare students for assessments and administer credential testing, helping students demonstrate verified workforce-ready skills.

Program Impact

Access Biotechnology serves as a bridge between classroom learning and real-world opportunities. By combining laboratory experiences, career exploration, mentorship, and college and workforce preparation, the program equips students with the tools needed to thrive in the rapidly growing life sciences sector.

Together, we are creating pathways that connect students to education, training, and careers while strengthening the future life sciences workforce.

Ready to Learn More?

Contact BioTeach@massbioed.org to learn how Access Biotechnology can support students in your school or community.