Biotechnology Training Program in Applied Life Sciences

Project Summary The past decade has been truly transformative for the Applied Life Sciences at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst (UMass). During this period a $150M investment in state-of-the art equipment housed in 30 core facilities operated by PhD-level center directors and over $400M in new research buildings has revolutionized the research capacity at our institution. This massive infrastructure growth has been matched with the hiring of over 50 new faculty in the life sciences. During this tremendous expansion we have developed the Biotech Training Program (BTP) in Applied Life Sciences, which leverages campus investments to provide outstanding training to a talented group of graduate students to prepare them for careers in the Biotech workforce and related areas. This training is guided by these objectives: 1) create a scholarly and social environment to facilitate new and strengthen existing interdisciplinary networks at UMass, particularly those at the interface of engineering and the life sciences; 2) educate students in the fundamentals of quantitative biotechnology through lecture and laboratory courses; 3) train students in the commercial impact of biotechnology through a tailored industrial internship and regular interactions with industrial personnel; 4) provide students with opportunities to improve interdisciplinary communication, expand career opportunities, and sharpen professional skills; and 5) increase the number of students, particularly those from underrepresented groups, who pursue careers in biotechnology. BTP faculty are recruited not by departmental affiliation, but by membership in the Institute for Applied Life Sciences (IALS), their research in biotechnology and their commitment to student training. For this reason, the UMass BTP recruits students from twelve PhD programs: Biomedical/Chemical/Civil/Mechanical Engineering, Chemistry, Microbiology, Molecular & Cell Biology, Neuroscience & Behavior, Plant Biology, Polymer Science & Engineering and Veterinary & Animal Science. We request twelve Trainee slots (matched with three and a half slots annually from UMass). Traineeships are awarded to students for the 2nd and 3rd years of study during which students complete the BTP curriculum. Innovative features include the Frontiers in Biotechnology course that is co-taught by industry personnel; specialized Laboratory Modules in biotechnology- techniques modeled after industry workshops; student-run Journal Club to break down discipline barriers and promote modern data analysis fluency; leadership in campus recruiting efforts for a diverse student population and accessibility to disabled students; an annual Symposium in Biotechnology (years 1 and 2) or BTP retreat (every 3rd year) that each offer a Biotech Battles experience where students solve real-world problems guided by industry experts; and targeted partnering with the Office of Professional Development for career exploration and planning. We have established industrial partnerships to support the hallmark of our BTP, a formal internship for all Trainees. Together, this comprehensive program prepares students well for careers in biotechnology.