Member Spotlight: University of California, Davis and Checkerspot
A unique partnership between BioMADE members is helping build and inspire the next generation of bioindustrial manufacturing leaders. Biochemical engineering students at the University of California, Davis recently participated in a unique, real-world capstone project during their senior year with Checkerspot, an Alameda-based company that biomanufactures unique structural oils.
Over the course of two quarters, students learned about a product they’re trying to make, the host organism, and what the production looks like, ultimately designing a biomanufacturing facility to produce said product. The model of the facility includes real specifications, like equipment sizes, material and energy balances, capital investments, and more.
“Every year, I look for company partners who will provide guidance and mentorship of our student teams,” said Dr. Karen McDonald, Professor of Chemical Engineering at UC-Davis. “BioMADE introduced us to Checkerspot who perfectly fit the bill. Students really benefited from the hands-on expertise and knowledge their team has.”
Bridging the gap between lab-scale research and at-scale manufacturing is a core part of BioMADE’s mission. Bioindustrial manufacturing is changing and evolving quickly; and connecting academia with industry is key to building a prepared workforce for the future.
“We were delighted to host UC-Davis students last semester,” said Scott Franklin, Co-Founder and Chief Scientific Officer for Checkerspot. “There are so many exciting opportunities in the bioindustrial manufacturing industry for recent graduates right now. All of these great new products and ideas will need pilot facilities, so students are learning really valuable skills.”
“Partnering with industry members also helps those of us on the academic side stay up to date on the latest in bioindustrial manufacturing technologies and processes,” added McDonald. “I’m grateful to BioMADE for bringing us all together across disciplines, and look forward to finding many more mutually beneficial collaboration opportunities in the future.”