Genzyme
Laura Kibuuka, a student at the College of Science and Mathematics, interned at Genzyme Corporation in summer 2008.
Laura Kibuuka was one of the first four UMass Boston students to take advantage of the program, working with a team that conducted tests to see which components of drugs are attacked by antibodies. She hopes to attend medical school eventually but describes her internship as an “eye-opening experience,” fostering respect for the biotech industry, the people who work in it, and the amount of research that goes into making safe, effective medications.
College of Science and Mathematics Dean Andrew Grosovsky says that the Genzyme program is precisely the type of partnership that truly makes a difference for students. “Our students gain not just by learning about the biotech field, but by doing. When they returned this fall they were so charged up with the opportunity and energy they derived from their work. Our curriculum benefits enormously.”
Juniors pursuing life sciences degrees at the university’s four undergraduate campuses are eligible for the program. This year, in addition to the internship, each student selected received a $5,000 grant toward senior-year tuition. Of the ten initial awards, four supported UMass Boston students.
