The University of Delaware Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences will host an information session about its newest major, applied molecular biology and biotechnology (BAMBB), from 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 15 in room 104 of Willard Hall Education Building.

College freshmen, sophomores and high school students can hear directly from faculty, staff and current students about how the hands-on major is preparing tomorrow’s workforce in the biotechnology field. Please register in advance.

“This program provides an up-to-date response to the challenge of entering this expanding field,” said MLS chairwoman Esther Biswas-Fiss. “This innovative program combines critical elements of science, technology and business to prepare graduates for a variety of jobs in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors.”

Leon Elcock switched to BAMBB after realizing it aligned with his interests in biotechnology and the human genome. Small class sizes mean more face time with his professors.

“I leave every class feeling as though I’ve learned something pertinent to my future career,” Elcock, a junior, said.

Biswas-Fiss said BAMBB majors will have the basic lab skills and science background needed to be competitive for an entry-level scientist position, such as in the biopharmaceutical industry, core facilities, research labs and more. The major also is a great preparation for medicine, law, doctoral studies and other health professions, she added.

Junior Tyler Findlay hopes to apply to a Ph.D. program and later, medical school, but he appreciates the career flexibility that the major provides.

“A great aspect of this degree is that it gives me marketable job skills if I choose to enter the workforce,” he said.  

Practical internships are integrated into the curriculum, Biswas-Fiss said, allowing students to gain real-world lab experience to complement their academic preparation. BAMBB coursework also helps prepare students to sit for a certification exam offered by the American Society for Clinical Pathology.

“The hands-on learning as well as the practicums that BAMBB students take part in their senior year gives us a unique set of skills and lab experience that will set us apart from other applicants to graduate programs,” junior Brittany Benfer said.

Interested students can learn more about BAMBB at the Nov. 15 information session. Pizza and refreshments will be provided. Pre-registration is requested.