PLNU Biotech Pathway Scholarship Program

In a bold move to fuel the thriving biotech industry in San Diego with fresh talent and innovation, Pacific Lutheran University (PLNU) has unveiled the Biotech Pathway Scholarship Program. This strategic initiative aims to bolster access to premium STEM education, simultaneously driving diversity and mentorship for community college students eyeing a future in the region’s burgeoning life sciences sector.

Dr. Kerry Fulcher, PLNU’s president, underscored the program’s pivotal role in nurturing a diverse talent pool to spearhead innovation in the life sciences arena. This move by PLNU is more than just an act of empowering aspirational biotech professionals; it is a strategic move towards cementing a foundation for future industry leaders.

The Biotech Pathway Scholarship Program acts as a dual-edged sword, addressing the demand for proficient individuals in the biotech sector while contributing to the overall growth and sustainability of San Diego’s life sciences milieu. It brings together mentorship and quality education to arm students with the necessary skillset to excel in this competitive field.

The program’s bold commitment to increasing diversity within the sector positions PLNU to significantly shape the future terrain of biotechnology in the region. As the program continues to support community college students, it is anticipated to play a critical role in sculpting the next generation of biotech innovators and leaders.

The Biotech Pathway Scholarship covers full tuition and fees for two years for students transferring from Southwestern or Miramar Colleges to STEM majors at PLNU. This initiative is a result of a partnership with the San Diego Regional Economic Development Corp.

Selected students will engage in a 10-week summer research program, comprising 400 hours of hands-on biotech and life sciences training, mentorship, free on-campus housing, and a stipend. Each participant will be paired with three mentors: a faculty member, an industry professional, and a peer, ensuring a holistic approach to their career growth.

PLNU has also earned the distinction of being one of only four institutions named a Verified Program of Life Sciences Talent through EDC’s Advancing San Diego program—an initiative that champions accessible, workforce-aligned training.

As Dr. Fulcher declares, PLNU’s commitment to expanding access to high-quality STEM education and equipping students with the needed skills and mentorship to flourish in San Diego’s biotech sector is steadfast. Through the Biotech Pathway Scholarship, PLNU is not just flinging open doors for talented community college students; it is reinforcing a diverse pipeline of innovators who will undoubtedly shape the future of life sciences in the region.

PLNU’s initiative is a prime example of academia and industry working in unison to foster talent and shape future leaders, directly contributing to the robust growth and sustainability of the biotech industry.