New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) and Genspace, a community biology lab in Sunset Park launched a biotech worforce development program.
The "Break into Biotech" pilot program will provide access to hands-on training, networking, mentorship, and career development opportunities necessary to break into the growing biotechnology sector, according to a release.
“We are thrilled to support the Break into Biotech training program in Sunset Park – a waterfront district in South Brooklyn that is an emerging hub for innovation. New York City is dedicated to supporting the growth of future-focused innovation sectors, like biotechnology, which are poised to supercharge our current and future economy,” said NYCEDC President & CEO Andrew Kimball. “While we are building these industries from the ground up – we must ensure there are accessible career pathways for all New Yorkers. We look forward to working with Genspace on increasing opportunities in the life sciences for people from all educational backgrounds.”
NYCEDC has allocated $500,000 to Genspace to run programming that will support up to 60 participants across five cohorts. The funds are designed to support the growth of New York City’s life sciences industry. Programming will take place in Genspace’s community biology laboratory located in Industry City. The community biology laboratory provides supplies and equipment including microscopes, centrifuges, DNA sequencing and protein gel electrophoresis equipment, along with space for educational classes and STEM programming for students.
The program will take place over three months and provide students with immersive, hands-on practical lab training and experiences, gaining proficiency in essential biotech techniques and protocols. The hands-on training will consist of in-lab workshops, such as advanced lab techniques and computational methods, and project-based learning experiences aligned to students’ interests and career aspirations. The program will feature two tracks, one in traditional life sciences and one in sustainability-focused biotechnology, such as biomaterials, building on the city's commitment to advancing this industry.
Applications are open to adults with or without STEM degrees, no prior experience is required. This includes people who are: changing careers or looking to start on a career pathway in the life sciences; high school graduates or have a GED but aren’t interested in going to college right now; curious about working in the life sciences field; and recent college graduates who want more lab experience for their resume. If you are interested in applying to the Break into Biotech program, click here.
