Biology and Chemistry Students Visit Novartis Lab in Cambridge

 

Novartis is a global healthcare company and their research arm is headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Within the complex is an authentic lab that models the laboratories of Novartis scientists where groups of students experience modern laboratory techniques and learn about biomedical science.  Dr. Dalton and 11 of his students visited the lab for a two-hour session that was one part hands-on activity and one-part discussion of the business side of the biotech industry.

 

“We started by talking about the process of making a drug, of testing a drug, and commercializing a drug, which really got the students engaged,” Dr. Dalton said. After that brief introduction, the students donned lab coats, safety glasses and gloves and got down to business.  “Once the activity started they were incredibly focused and brought the kind of attention they have in the classroom to this experience.”

 

Assisting with the session were four research scientists from Novartis, so between the staff and Dr. Dalton, each pair of students was able to work closely with a scientist to complete the activity.

 

“They got to feel what it is like to be a real scientist, which is exciting,” Dr. Dalton said. “To be off campus, in a lab, in Cambridge, working with research scientists is an incredible opportunity. One student asked me on the way home when we could have a reunion! So they were definitely excited and enjoyed the visit.”