Inspiring the next generation of industrial biotechnology scientists and engineers
Building Scotland's future biotech workforce starts long before university or college. IBioIC works with schools, teachers, careers advisers and national outreach partners to raise awareness of industrial biotechnology as a career, and to inspire young people to explore the subject pathways that could take them there.
Why this matters
Industrial biotechnology is one of the fastest-growing sectors in Scotland and globally, but awareness of it as a career pathway remains low among school pupils and those who guide their choices. Many young people who would thrive in this sector simply do not know it exists, or do not see themselves in it.
IBioIC's schools and outreach work connects young people with real scientists and engineers working on genuinely exciting problems to show them that a career in biotechnology is not just possible for them, it could be remarkable.
What IBioIC can offer your school or event
Careers day participation
Our team can attend your school's careers day to talk to pupils about careers in industrial biotechnology - what they involve, what qualifications lead to them, and what the day-to-day really looks like.
Expert speakers from industry
We can connect your school with practitioners and specialists from across the sector, including scientists, engineers, entrepreneurs and professionals with non-linear career paths.
Career pathway showcases
We highlight the real career journeys of people who trained in industrial biotechnology - including former college students - to show pupils the varied routes and destinations that a qualification in IB can open up.
We particularly welcome invitations where speakers with non-linear career paths are valued. Industrial biotechnology is a field where people arrive from many different starting points - and showing that variety to young people is one of the most effective ways of broadening who sees themselves in the sector.
Our Outreach Partners
IBioIC works alongside established national outreach programmes to extend our reach into schools and communities across Scotland.
Leaders in Science Programme
Connecting school pupils with leading scientists and engineers across Scotland's research and innovation community.
TeenTech
Inspiring young people - particularly those who would not typically consider a STEM career - through hands-on events, industry challenges and direct contact with professionals.
In2Science
Placing students from underrepresented backgrounds into research placements — giving them direct experience of science in action and the encouragement to pursue STEM careers.
Get IBioIC involved with your school or event
If you would like IBioIC to attend your careers day, speak to your students or get involved with an outreach programme, please get in touch. We are always keen to hear from schools, colleges and organisations working to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers.