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Akron Biotechnology, the National Institute for Innovation in Manufacturing Biopharmaceuticals and the Texas A&M Engineering Experiment Station collaborate to pursue workforce development initiative. | Image: Getty Images

Akron Biotechnology has partnered with the National Institute for Innovation in Manufacturing Biopharmaceuticals (NIIMBL) and the Texas A&M Engineering Experiment Station (TEES) to pursue an exciting workforce development initiative. 

TEES leads the grant, which combines online and in-person modules to train technicians on processes required in biotherapeutics manufacturing. Developed and delivered by TEES’ National Center for Therapeutics Manufacturing (NCTM), the curriculum includes upstream bioreactor operation, downstream processing and analytical testing. As part of its commitment to professional development, Akron has enrolled two manufacturing team members in the training.

“We are honored by NIIMBL’s sponsorship and proud to collaborate with Akron through this rigorous educational program that will immerse participants in more than 100 hours of cGMP bioprocess training,” said Dr. Zivko Nikolov, director of NCTM. “Upon completion of the program, more than 40 technically skilled graduates will be ready for immediate employment with NIIMBL partner companies.”

“Akron Biotechnology is dedicated to continuing education and workforce development,” said Claudia Zylberberg, CEO of Akron Biotechnology. “The biopharmaceutical industry is rapidly evolving, and it is critical that training be aligned with industry needs. We are excited to partner with NIIMBL as well as the academic and industry team members on these initiatives.”

“NIIMBL invests in projects that will strengthen the pipeline of skilled workers for the biopharmaceutical industry. This project promises a robust curriculum that will serve industrial needs,” said John Balchunas, NIIMBL workforce director.