The state of Georgia will host the 2009 BIO (Biotechnology Industry Organization) International Conference May 18-21 in Atlanta. The meeting is the first time that the biotechnology industry’s pre-eminent annual convention has been held outside of an internationally recognized biotech hub, such as Boston.
To encourage Georgia university faculty attendance, the conference is offering a special faculty registration rate. In addition, UGA will provide scholarships to enable up to 20 UGA faculty and 40 UGA students to participate in the event.
Faculty can apply online for the scholarships through the Georgia BioBusiness Center’s Web site (www.biobusiness.uga.edu/). Applications must be submitted by March 20. Scholarship awards will be announced by March 27.
“This biotech-focused convention presents a unique opportunity for university faculty and students to develop industry connections,” said Laura Meadows, associate vice president for economic development and co-chair of the UGA 2009 BIO planning committee with Margaret Wagner-Dahl, director of the Georgia BioBusiness Center.
“This convention is very different from academic scientific conferences,” said Wagner-Dahl. “It provides faculty and students with a first-hand overview of the depth and breadth of the biotech industry.”
BIO is actively encouraging faculty-industry interactions by offering a special faculty registration rate of $595, reduced from the full conference package price of $2,195. This academic rate allows a faculty member and two students to attend. Students cannot register unless they are linked directly to a faculty member.
Scholarships will be awarded to faculty applicants meeting specific criteria. These include:
• Area of scientific research or areas of specialized or professional education relevant to biotechnology (business, legal, specialized training are applicable).
• Expression of interest in the biotechnology industry, e.g., research collaborations, training opportunities, etc.
• Demonstrated interest in mentoring students (undergraduate or graduate) and/or post docs in biotechnology-related fields as well as identifying up to two likely student candidates for conference participation. Mentorship of students is not required, but willingness to “host” students is preferred;
• Willingness to participate in a one-hour pre-conference orientation session in order to maximize use of 2009 BIO; and
• Ability to commit to the entire 2009 BIO conference, May 18-21.
BIO also has criteria for student attendees:
• Minimum 21 years of age; and
• Student registration is for sessions only; luncheon keynotes and evening receptions are not included.