P137: Training the Next Generation of Biomanufacturing Professionals at the University of Georgia

Biomanufacturing is the common operation that links the different market sectors in the biotechnology industry, but there are currently few training programs in this area.  The University of Georgia’s Science Master of Biomanufacturing and Bioprocessing Program will train science and technology graduates for leadership roles in this rapidly expanding and vitally important industry, impacting areas such as biofuel production, green chemical manufacturing, agricultural biotechnology and biopharmaceuticals applications.  The program will combine the necessary STEM skills with business and project management training to engage students in an industry that is short of leaders with this type of preparation.  An innovative combination of academic and industry led training bringing together exceptional scientific, engineering and business educators and giving students access to state of the art equipment, practical and virtual training experiences ensure our graduate’s readiness for a challenging and rewarding workplace.  Students will have access to the exceptional biomanufacturing facilities at UGA where they will work with industrial standard equipment and control systems.  Potential employers and technology providers will work alongside faculty to guide, train, set challenges for, and provide internships to students.  Students will emerge from our program with an understanding of the biology, biochemistry, chemical engineering, process control and regulatory aspects that underpin fermentation, cell culture and product purification.  More importantly, they will have the ability to apply that knowledge in a competitive global business community to support the growth of environmentally sustainable manufacturing in the USA with beneficial impacts on the economy, environment, healthcare and national security.