News ItemNMBio Supports Biotech Education

June 4, 2013 – 

Biotechnology companies in New Mexico have spoken loud and clear that they require a skilled workforce. Workers trained in biotechnology and biomedical-related fields are in demand by businesses seeking growth opportunities.

The Albuquerque Journal (New Mexico Building a Biotech Bonanza – Jan. 21, 2013) and the Department of Economic Development recognize the growth potential in New Mexico’s biotech industry. The challenge and opportunity is to find workers to fill these new jobs.

NMBio is supporting this need on an annual basis along three fronts. First, annually we seek out and sponsor student competitors for the BioGENEius Challenge, an international science competition managed by the Biotechnology Institute (www.biotechinstitute.org). This program provides New Mexico high school students conducting original research in biotechnology an opportunity to compete in national and international challenges. This year, we sent the two selected students and their chaperones on an all-expenses-paid trip to compete in the BioGENEius Challenge at the BIO International Convention in Chicago, IL. Our representatives were Anjik Ghosh of the Albuquerque Academy and Abdullah Shah of the Salam Academy Family Connection.

Secondly, NMBio annually sponsors a scholarship for a graduating high school senior that is pursuing a college degree in a biotechnology-related field. The application period closed June 1st and the $1,000 scholarship will be awarded on July 1st.

Finally, on an annual basis NMBio financially sponsors New Mexico’s five regional science fairs. Members also serve as judges for some of these competitions. These events are an excellent forum for highlighting New Mexico talent and inspiring careers in biotechnology.

The feedback from students is also clear that they feel inspired to pursue further education in biotechnology as a result of NMBio’s efforts.