NIIMBL eXperience for Educators
The NIIMBL eXperience for Educators is a one-day, in-person professional development experience designed to connect K–12 science educators to real-world biopharmaceutical manufacturing careers and classroom-ready STEM resources.
This program is offered in partnership with the National Institute for Innovation in Manufacturing Biopharmaceuticals (NIIMBL). The University of Louisiana at Lafayette and the New Iberia Research Center are collaborating with NIIMBL to deliver a hands-on learning experience that introduces participants to biomanufacturing concepts, workforce pathways and practical materials that can be adapted across grade levels and science courses.
Who Should Apply
This program is designed primarily for K–12 science educators (biology, chemistry and general science) in Lafayette, Iberia and St. Landry Parishes. Applications are also welcome from school administrators, workforce development professionals, community partners, alumni and local stakeholders interested in strengthening education-to-industry connections and student career awareness.
Snapshot
- One-day immersive professional development experience
- Hosted at the New Iberia Research Center (NIRC)
- Cohort of 15 selected participants
- $560 stipend provided (one-day program)
- Meals included
Program Experience
Selected participants will engage in interactive activities, facility-based learning and discussions with experts to support classroom integration and workforce awareness. The program emphasizes practical takeaways that can be implemented and shared beyond the experience itself.
Program Features
Participants will:
- Explore the biopharma and biotech industry, including “day in the life” career pathways
- Take part in a hands-on biomanufacturing simulation with support from the Bioscience Core Skills Institute
- Tour advanced research and biomanufacturing facilities at NIRC
- Receive take-home classroom resources and opportunities for continued community connection
Before You Apply
Applicants should be prepared to provide basic teaching or professional context (school or organization, grade level, courses taught or role) and respond to short written prompts describing how program learning could be applied or shared.
Selected participants will be expected to attend the full program, complete brief post-program feedback and submit a short classroom or implementation reflection.
Applications should be completed in one sitting if possible. Responses will be used to select a cohort that reflects regional representation, classroom reach and readiness to implement and share program learning.
Important Dates
- Application deadline: March 27, 2026
- Program date: June 3, 2026
Learn more about the NIIMBL eXperience for Educators »
Questions? Contact Us
Dr. Kumer Das: kumer.das@louisiana.edu
Dr. Gaurav Raikhy: gaurav.raikhy@louisiana.edu
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