Each year, the Sanofi-Aventis BioTalent Challenge (SABC) is held in 14 regions across Canada by local biotech and educational organizations in partnership with universities, colleges, government and industry. TechAlliance joins more than 100 organizations in hosting the competition. Since regional expansion of the local program, participation has more than tripled!
 
In addition, many student participants have secured summer positions with their mentors and gone on to complete more intensive research and studies in the field. In many regions, including Southwestern Ontario, a lecture series on various aspects of biotechnology is also offered to local participants as part of the Regional Competition.
 
Each regional SABC competition features the outstanding work of high school students who have conducted research projects and experiments of their own design in some area of biotechnology.  Locally, a total of $7500 in cash prizes are awarded to the top five student teams and their schools based on the recommendations of judges from the scientific community and the biotechnology industry.  In addition, the top three student teams are awarded scholarships to The University of Western Ontario.
 
The Southwestern Ontario region has also created an exciting program entitled Beakers for Teachers. This is an incentive program unique to our region, designed to encourage teachers to promote participation in SABC amongst their students.  Based on a points system, teachers with participating students are awarded science-related classroom equipment and resources which are donated by local educational and research organizations, institutions and medical supply companies. Since the program’s inception in 2006, we have donated nearly $150,000 worth of laboratory equipment and supplies, including interactive activities, field trips and computer equipment, to the supervising teachers of SABC students.

The 2009/2010 Regional Competition is now accepting applications. Click here to download a flyer outlining registration details and dates. The competition date is set for April 16, 2010.

For more information about the program, visit the SABC Southwestern Ontario Region website or contact Allison Fisher at 519.858.5059 or allison [dot] fishertechalliance [dot] ca.