Bioversity is a Massachusetts incorporated non-profit with pending 501c3 status launched by MassBio. It was formed to implement industry-aligned, expanded workforce training initiatives. Bioversity operates training centers, runs programming, and creates partnerships to provide Massachusetts residents the skills and hands-on experience necessary to enter and thrive in life sciences careers. Together with MassBio, we serve as the nexus of learners, employers, educational institutions, and community organizations to make the whole of the life sciences workforce development landscape more efficient; allowing people to find jobs faster and employers to have easier access to a broader and more diverse talent pipeline.
Workforce Training Center at Southline Boston
In January 2024, MassBio will be opening a 4,000-square-foot workforce training center at the Southline Boston development in the Dorchester neighborhood of Boston to provide short-term training programs for high-school graduates providing them a pathway toward rewarding entry-level careers in the life sciences. Built on extensive input from life sciences employers in Massachusetts, the initial training curriculum will focus on developing learner’s technical skills as well as soft skills necessary to succeed and advance in a career. Graduates of the initial programming will be ready immediately for employment in areas such as lab operations, facilities, supply chain and operations, and environment, health, and safety (EHS) – jobs that have starting salaries in the mid five-figures plus excellent benefits.
MassBio’s training programs will:
- Be offered at no cost to learners
- Provide a stipend to offset lost work hours
- Pay for necessary wraparound services
- Feature short-term completion timelines (e.g. 8-12 weeks)
Information Request
Bioversity at Southline Boston is expected to open in early 2024. If you are interested in getting more information about applying to participate in the training programs, please fill out the information request form.
Support the Center
MassBio is looking for industry partners to support Bioversity in in various ways. If you would like to have a conversation about partnering opportunities, please reach out to Bioversity Executive Director Zach Stanley.
The Challenge
The Massachusetts life sciences industry is facing a workforce crisis: there is more demand for talent than is currently available, at all levels.
- The current educational and training system in Massachusetts is not set-up to produce enough new talent to keep up with future demand.
- The Massachusetts life sciences workforce is lacking diversity.
In the short-term, MassBio is creating a new entry-level training paradigm that can quickly develop talent that is completely aligned with what Massachusetts life sciences companies are seeking.
The Location
Southline Boston is located in the Dorchester neighborhood of Boston, adjacent to the JFK/UMass Station subway station on the Red Line, and easily accessible from other neighborhoods of Boston.
What They’re Saying
“The City of Boston is excited to partner on making the MassBio Training Center at Southline a model for pathways into this dynamic, growing industry for our city and our region.”
Boston Mayor Michelle Wu
“Training our residents right around the corner from where many of them live to provide them entry into rewarding careers in the life sciences is an integral part in the creation of a better future for our children.”
District 3 Councilor Frank Baker
“Programs available to a wider range of individuals, creating a path to a biopharmaceutical career by combining education with practical experience, like those through the MassBio Training Center at Southline, are critical to ensuring we have a diverse and inclusive talent pool.”
Yolanda McLean, Alnylam Pharmaceuticals