The Southern California Biotechnology Center (SCBC) is a regional economic and workforce development center located at San Diego Miramar College. It serves as an "on-ramp" to Life Sciences and Biotechnology programs of study and works with the Community Colleges to prepare students to serve the workforce needs of the industry. The goal is to provide structured program pathways to Life Sciences and Biotech students, maximizing both access and success to align with State, Regional, and College goals.
Our Flagship Programs
For K-12 Students
Entering 5th-8th Grades: S2 Summer Science Program: Summer workshops through hands-on learning in the lab encouraging scientific method with a focus on human health topics. Sessions taught by qualified educators in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Human Anatomy, Physiology, and Biotechnology.
Rising 9th Graders: Biotech Career Jumpstart Program: Prepares high school students to move seamlessly from high school to college prepared for careers in life sciences/ biotechnology/ STEM. This is a comprehensive six-year cohort model pathway in life sciences to Certificates of Achievement and AS Degree at SD Miramar College and middle skills jobs. Video of July 2021 activities below:
For 9-12 Teachers
Amgen Biotech Experience (ABE): An innovative science education program that introduces secondary school students to the excitement of scientific discovery. ABE provides secondary school teachers with the loan of research-grade equipment, supplies, curriculum, and professional development at no cost.
For Community College Students:
Supply Chain Experience (SCE): The Biotechnology Program at Miramar College is offering the Service-Learning Supply Chain Experience (SCE) Scholarship again this intersession. SCE prepares students for employment in the life sciences industry by providing laboratory technical skills training along with education and career counseling, industry exploration, job searching skills, and resume building. Students will participate in hands-on lab activities where they will gain work experience in the Miramar Biotech Lab by manufacturing products for customers. Participating students will become eligible for a $1000 scholarship. SCE scholarships are made possible thanks to grant support from San Diego Foundation. The next round of applications for this program is due November 6, 2023. Application link HERE.
Summer 2021 Grant-Funded Biotech Classes: Accelerate your Biotech classes at no cost.
For Job Seekers and Incumbent Workers:
Biotechnology Employment Skills Training (BEST): Workshops on critical workplace skills.
Quality and GMP Training: New course at Miramar that prepares students for the Certified Quality Improvement Associate (CQIA) examination through the American Society for Quality.
SCBC Resources
SCBC FAQs
Contacts:
Sandra Slivka, Ph.D. sslivka@sdccd.edu
Rebecca Bowers-Gentry, Ph.D. rbowersg@sdccd.edu