One million minds ignited: Amgen inspires the next generation of science leaders

Medical & Science: The Amgen Biotech Experience (ABE) is marking a significant milestone this month by welcoming its one-millionth student – a testament not just to its extensive reach across 16 countries, but to its transformative impact on science education worldwide.

Scott Heimlich, President of the Amgen Foundation, remarked, “Reaching the one million student mark with the Amgen Biotech Experience is a milestone we’re really proud of. It’s about partnering with teachers to show a million young minds that science is exciting and within their reach.”

Launched by Amgen scientists in 1990, the ABE began with a modest outreach initiative targeting schools near the company’s headquarters in Thousand Oaks, California. Today, it has evolved into a leading educational program that introduces students to the thrill of scientific discovery and bridges the gap between classroom learning and real-life biosciences. The program supports educators by providing professional development, educational materials, and research-grade equipment at no cost.

In Australia alone, over 12,000 students in New South Wales have benefited since its launch in 2017 in partnership with The University of Sydney.

Former Pennant Hills High School student Jasmine Williams reflected, “ABE was a pivotal moment that changed the direction of my life and made me decide I wanted a career in science. I loved the hands-on nature of the program. When I had learned the theory, it wasn’t tangible to me, but participating in the practical sessions cemented my learning and ignited my passion for medical science.”

To further bolster this impactful initiative, the Amgen Foundation has pledged an additional $7 million to the ABE program, raising its total investment to more than $60 million.

Gabi Mittas, Associate Vice President and Managing Director, Amgen Australia and New Zealand, emphasised, “ABE has the power to ignite a passion for science in young minds and inspire the next generation of innovators and it’s exciting that this important initiative will continue into the future.”

Moreover, ABE’s labs are now available online, expanding the program’s reach and complementing its in-person experiences, ensuring that the excitement of scientific exploration can touch even more students around the globe.

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