On August 31, the Gloucester Biotechnology Academy will open its doors for the Class of 2021 to begin the innovative, life sciences workforce training at Blackburn Center. and is still accepting applications for the few remaining openings. The entering class will mark the 5th anniversary of the transformational, vocational program.

“At GMGI, we are all about science so we will be taking more than just the prescribed precautions,” said Christine Bolzan, GMGI Executive Director. “This will be a safe and productive environment — 81% of enrolled students graduate and 86% of them have gone either on to careers in life sciences or to study science in college.” The Academy team has created a comprehensive plan that prioritizes the health and safety of students and staff and allows for a continuation of the Academy’s tradition of excellence in hands-on, laboratory career training.

Donning PPE has long been an Academy practice, and additional requirements will include careful social distancing, rotating breaks and lunch schedules, cleaning regimens, and a revised academic calendar to account for potential disruptions due to illness. Students and staff will engage in daily health monitoring before entering the facility. Equipment has been purchased to allow for lectures to be recorded, and both classroom and laboratory settings have been reconfigured to create the safest possible environment.

“The practical curriculum cannot be taught remotely as the great benefit of this experience is its hands-on nature and guidance from our teaching staff. We needed to develop a plan that would allow that to continue, and it will take commitment, vigilance and honesty within our Academy community to make this work amid a global pandemic. We are excited to move forward and welcome another cohort of young adults to pursue careers as laboratory technicians,” explained Dr. John Doyle, Education Director.

The Gloucester Biotechnology Academy is currently accepting applications for the Fall of 2020 and more information can be found online: https://gmgi.org/education/apply/