MJ working on a computer

Helping students realize the value of biology, life science, and invention.

BIA Back Summer 2025!
Through the Biotech in Action program, we have worked with hundreds of students, creating a new generation of young scientists and inventors has been empowered to solve the problems of the future.

Biotech in Action 

The Biogen Community Lab and Lemelson-MIT Program created the 
Biogen-MIT Biotech in Action program which offered real-time conversations with employees of both Biogen and MIT which taught about biotechnology and invention with a focus on subjects such as Alzheimer's disease and multiple sclerosis. It was  designed to help students:

  • Discover a passion for health sciences, biotechnology, invention and innovation
  • Experience problem-finding and problem-solving in ways that mirror the biotech, university and innovation sector
  • Expand their knowledge and laboratory skills
  • Develop skills aligned with those that are essential to the future of work
  • Identify their personal strengths and capabilities, and next steps for growth

The program was offered at no cost, and was open to students in 10th-12th grade in the U.S. and 14-18 years old globally. Priority was given to students from low -income households and groups historically underrepresented in science. Locations were in Cambridge, MA; RTP, NC; and online.

Summer sessions met from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Friday. Fall sessions met from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays.

 

About Biogen-LMIT Biotech in Action (BIA)

BIA is a program for students in grades 10-12 that fosters a passion for science and invention, especially in students underrepresented in STEM fields and disciplines.  

Online programs are offered during the summer months and across the regular school year. Students enroll as individuals and are assigned to a team. Teammates work together to complete virtual lab simulations with Labster (an online tool), prepare research posters, and consider inventions to improve the lives of others. 

Students meet and interact with many people to gain inside views of the biotech company and the institute, including:

  • Biogen employees

  • MIT faculty, staff, and students

  • Young inventors from the Lemelson-MIT Program’s (LMIT) initiatives 

 Research and data indicate that BIA helps students: 

  • Expand their knowledge of the sciences

  • Reap insights into college and career possibilities in the biological and life sciences 

 Learn more about previous Biotech in Action programs: 
About Biogen-LMIT Biotech in Action: 

The Biogen Community Lab and LMIT launched BIA in 2020 as a way of preserving a summer learning opportunity for students who could no longer attend in-person during the COVID-19 pandemic. The two entities continue to collaborate on the joint offering through their commitment to empowering the next generation of young scientists and inventors.