Igniting the Spark: High School Scholars Explore Biotech Frontiers at QIAGEN

By Ezekiel Kelley
July 12, 2023

The sounds of curiosity resonated through the hallways of QIAGEN’s sprawling Germantown, Maryland, campus last week, as I joined a group of eager high school students from Georgetown University’s Biotechnology for Science and Health Academy summer program. This program, designed to enlighten young minds about the vast universe of STEM, brilliantly organized this field trip to broaden the scholars’ horizons and present them with a taste of the real-world biotech industry. “We are happy to be part of the Biotechnology for Science & Health Academy summer program at Georgetown University,” QIAGEN expressed. “The program perfectly aligns with our goals and initiatives: we want to drive advancements in the biotechnology field and empower the next generation of scientists. By participating in this program, we can inspire young scientists who will shape the future of research and healthcare,” said Derry Velardi, Senior Director, Head of Human Resources in North America.

From the outset, it was evident that QIAGEN’s initiative was more than just a casual guided tour. It was an invitation for these young minds to engage, ask questions, and truly understand the diverse career opportunities that exist in the exciting field of biotechnology. During the presentation, the students learned about QIAGEN’s journey from a university spin-off in Germany to a global company serving over 500,000 customers worldwide. They understood how QIAGEN’s products enable scientists and medical staff to unlock molecular insights from samples, improving diagnostics and research. “In the applications lab, the students experienced how we facilitate and speed up the processes to unlock these insights with the instruments we offer. Many lab processes can be automated to ensure scientists receive faster, more accurate results and can work on other things while a sample is processed,” said Kyle Orndorff, Senior Director, Field Applications North America.

The manufacturing facilities provided an eye-opening experience about the complex processes that go into creating sophisticated biotech products. “During the facility tour, students visited the core areas of our Manufacturing Operations, including Warehousing, Technical Manufacturing, Filling, Kit Assembly, and Quality Control. This tour gave them a comprehensive understanding of the critical steps in producing high-quality products” said Tracy Hall, Head of Operations Germantown. Throughout the visit, QIAGEN staff members were approachable, patient, and receptive, ready to quench the students’ thirst for knowledge with detailed explanations. “We are committed to supporting programs that nurture the next generation of scientists and creating a diverse and inclusive workforce in the biotechnology industry,” Hall added.

Their vision for the event was to help the students gain firsthand knowledge of working in a global biotechnology company. As Derry Velardi expressed, “Not everyone here is a bench scientist – there are many more possibilities to build a career. Therefore, the students heard from employees with varied backgrounds and responsibilities, showcasing the diverse range of career opportunities available within the industry.”

I had the chance to shadow these scholars, and the privilege to be somewhat of a “fly on the wall”. I witnessed the students’ eyes light up as they interacted with cool technology and learned about intriguing processes. The energy was palpable; the fascination, real. 

QIAGEN’s commitment to education and inspiring the next generation was clear. Their previous engagements with educational institutions like Kettering University and Boston University have proven to be fruitful, with students gaining career opportunities and QIAGEN strengthening its operations. Their partnership with Georgetown University’s Biotechnology for Science and Health Academy summer program is no different. 

These visits to industry giants like QIAGEN are so much more than field trips – they serve as critical catalysts, inspiring young minds and igniting a spark that could very well fuel the future of STEM. It’s crucial for communities to connect with companies in their backyard and it was great to see QIAGEN commit to doing their part.  I look forward to more such inspiring trips with the future torchbearers of science.