San Jacinto College Prepares New Biotechnology Spaces

Photo courtesy of San Jacinto College.

San Jacinto College, exclusive provider of the National Institute for Bioprocessing Research and Training ("NIBRT") for the southern part of the United States, is making major strides in the biotechnology field on Jan. 29, 2024.

Center for Biotechnology

The College broke ground on a new Center for Biotechnology at the Generation Park Campus. This state-of-the-art facility, which is being built in collaboration with McCord Development, Inc., will provide comprehensive, hands-on training with realistic good manufacturing practices ("GMP") simulated environments. 

The Center will offer an associate of applied science degree in biomanufacturing technology, and shorter credentials for post-graduates, to meet workforce needs. The facility's cutting-edge resources and immersive training environments will ensure that graduates are equipped with the skills and knowledge essential for success in the dynamic biopharmaceutical industry.

“The Center and the overall components of the Biotechnology program will play a vital role in meeting the growing demand for skilled professionals in the biotechnology sector,” said Dr. Brenda Hellyer, chancellor, San Jacinto College. “We are committed to equipping our students with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in the dynamic biopharmaceutical industry. Our vision is to not only meet the workforce needs of today but will also shape the future of biotechnology education and training in our region.”

“We are thrilled to have San Jacinto’s new Center for Biotechnology at Generation Park, reinforcing our commitment to fostering Houston’s life science ecosystem. The world-renowned NIBRT program will provide quality workforce training in the pharmaceutical manufacturing space, strengthening Houston’s ability to attract and retain world-class companies in the industry,” said Ryan McCord, president of McCord Development. 

The Center for Biotechnology is scheduled for completion in the first quarter of 2025.

Biomanufacturing Training Program

San Jacinto College celebrated the ribbon-cutting for the Biomanufacturing Training Program at the South Campus. This program marks the initiation of the College’s comprehensive biotechnology offerings, beginning with an onboarding certificate designed to equip new professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary to seamlessly enter the field.

The Biomanufacturing Training Program, a two-week hybrid initiative, integrates theoretical knowledge, practical hands-on experience, and exposure to industry practices. Furthermore, the program is customizable to meet the specific training needs of industry partners. Future offerings will expand to cover all aspects of biomanufacturing, specialized instrumentation and equipment training, and advanced techniques, ensuring that San Jacinto College remains at the forefront of biotechnological education.

“As we unveil the Biomanufacturing Training Program, we are taking a significant step toward meeting the growing demands of the biotechnology sector right now,” said Dr. Christopher Wild, executive director, San Jacinto College Center for Biotechnology. “This program is designed to provide a seamless entry into the field for new professionals, with a focus on practical experience and exposure to industry practices.”

“We are delighted that San Jacinto College has joined the NIBRT Global Partners Programme to help train the biopharma manufacturing workforce of the future,” said Darrin Morrissey, CEO of NIBRT. “The Global Partner Programme provides access and support to our award-winning curriculum to ensure trainees receive best-in-class training on all aspects of biopharma manufacturing. We look forward to working with the great team at San Jacinto to deliver this training in the greater Houston region.”

At approximately 4,000 square feet, the San Jacinto College Biomanufacturing Training Program facility houses the latest industry equipment, including biosafety cabinets, benchtop bioreactors and wave bioreactors, automated viability and cell counters, filter integrity tester, and more. The resources of the Biotechnology offerings at San Jacinto College will continue to expand to meet the needs of this thriving industry.

To learn more about the biotechnology program at San Jacinto College, visit https://www.sanjac.edu/programs/areas-of-study/stem/biomanufacturing-tech.