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Life sciences job training center opens at UM BioPark

Baltimore Business Journal - by Ryan Sharrow Staff

Baltimore City Community College unveiled Monday a life sciences training center at the University of Maryland BioPark.

The Life Sciences Institute will enable students to pursue jobs at the BioPark, where around 350 people currently work. When complete, the 10-acre West Baltimore park is expected to house 2,500 workers and boast 1.8 million square feet of space.

By the end of 2009, nearly 400,000 square feet of space will be complete.

The opening Monday was attended by Sen. Barbara A. Mikulski, a Maryland Democrat. Mikulski helped secure more than $1 million in federal funding for the institute.

Kathleen Kennedy Norris, BCCC coordinator of biotechnology and LSI’s on-site director, said 18 students have already been recommended to interview with Massachusetts-based Biomere LLC for potential employment and training as part of a new laboratory animal care facility and certificate to be offered at LSI. Biomere has space at the park.

“Housing the Life Sciences Institute at the BioPark is about creating jobs and new opportunity for students who go here and residents who live here,” Kennedy Norris said in a statement. “Students will be a floor away from scientists developing new treatments and cures for cancer and diabetes. Baltimore City residents will have quick access to jobs, training, mentorships and more.”

The LSI is a partnership between BCCC, the University of Maryland Baltimore and the Vivien T. Thomas Medical Arts Academy, a 600-student Baltimore City public high school.