BIO 2000 Program Provides Teachers Update On Biotechnology
The three-day program will update teachers onbiotechnology developments, provide them with materials for bringing biotechnology into their classrooms and offer numerous opportunities for interacting with members of the biotechnology community.
BIO 2000 is the annual International BiotechnologyMeeting and Exhibition of the Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO). More than 7,000 company executives, scientists, investment experts and government officials are expected to attend. More than 700 speakers will participate in 200 symposia and sessions on the latest developments in science, business and public policy.
From Saturday, March 25, to Monday, March 27, teachers willtour Boston area biotech industry facilities, receive training in biotechnology techniques, such as genetic manipulation and protein purification, attend scientific seminars, participate in discussions on bioethics and gain first-hand information on how to better prepare their students for employment in the biotechnology industry.
BIO President Carl B. Feldbaum said, "Biotechnology is wellsuited to the hands-on, inquiry-based approach to learning that is central to science education reform. The BIO 2000 Teacher Professional Development Program will provide teachers with scientific background, hands-on skills and curriculum ideas for bringing this exciting and increasingly relevant field of science into their classrooms.
"In addition," Feldbaum said, "teachers will have a uniqueopportunity to interact with members of the biotechnology community and develop relationships with local companies and other motivated teachers. These sorts of partnerships are critical elements of science education reform."
The BIO 2000 Teacher Professional Development Program is fully funded, excluding travel, through contributions of American Home Products, Boston Scientific Corporation, Merck & Co. Inc., and the law firm of Fish and Neave.
A full program of BIO 2000 conference activities is posted onBIO's website (www.bio.org) in the BIO 2000 News Room. Look here for selected highlights, featured speakers, contacts, a schedule of press conferences, pressroom hours and registration instructions. The pressroom will be in Rooms 108 and 109 of the Hynes. The phone numbers there are (617) 954-3159 and (617) 954-3160.