Introduction to stem cells and how biomaterials are utilized in their applications involving biotechnology and biomedical engineering. Lab topics such as aseptic technique, stem cell cultures, biomaterials engineering, bioprinting, biocompatibility and bioactivity analyses will be covered. Lectures will focus on the current literature while the lab portion involves inquiry-based projects that will investigate how biomaterials and molecules modulate stem cell proliferation and differentiation.

This course is intended for any student seeking internship, co-op, and/or employment opportunities. Participants research and evaluate biotech-related career opportunities related to their interests, create application portfolios, conduct interviews, use networking and job search resources, and participate in employer-based resume reviews and/or mock interviews. This course cannot be repeated for credit.

The internship experience enhances the student's academic achievements with real-world, professional industry projects through placement at biopharma industry organizations. The student is expected to apply knowledge and skills acquired through other coursework in the major to address and solve new, authentic problems identified buy the internship employer. Under the direction of a faculty advisor and workplace supervisor, the student is expected to contribute effectively within a team at the organization.

The research project experience enhances the student's academic achievements with a project-based experience in an academics lab. The student is expected to apply knowledge and skills acquired through other coursework in the major to address and solve new, authentic basic or applied science questions under the direction of a faculty advisor. The student is expected to contribute effectively within a lab team.