Nanobiotechnology to Inspire the Next Generation of the Skilled Biomanufacturing Workforce

Members: University of North Carolina, Greensboro, Forsyth Technical Community College, Genome Insights

Project dates: 2021-2024

Through immersive, hands-on experiences with cutting-edge nanotechnology, participants of this course – mostly educators and veterans – were introduced to DNA sequencing, the power of microbes, regenerative farming, and more. Students were exposed to how this applies to bioindustrial manufacturing through tours or the North Carolina A&T Research Farm and the University of North Carolina Greensboro Joint Schools of Nanoscience and Nanoengineering. Instructional materials were developed covering: 

• Magnificent microbes 

• Introduction to DNA and DNA sequencing 

• Farming with microbes 

• Bioindustrial manufacturing opportunities 

• Scanning electron microscope imaging  

The course directly engaged 20 veterans and 15 teachers. Thanks to a teach-the-teacher approach, this course may impact up to 600 classroom students. 

Members can access workshop materials via the Member Portal. 

Funding source: U.S. Department of Defense