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Biotechnology Research Fellowship Program (BRFP)
Empowering Future Scientists: Workforce Development in Biotech Through STEM Education
Program Leaders:
William Velhagen, PhD
Dean of the School of Arts & Sciences
Caldwell university
Darryl Aucoin, PhD
Chair of Natural Sciences
Caldwell university
Maria Agapito, PhD
President
NJ Academy of Science
Assistant Professor of Biology
Caldwell university
Amy Hains
Program Manager
STEM Advance Project
School of Arts & Sciences
Caldwell university
Project Goals
The Biotechnology Research Fellow Program (BRFP) at Caldwell University is a transformative, hands-on research experience for high school students interested in Cancer Biology, Neuroscience, and Developmental Biology. This immersive two-week summer program connects students with real-world scientific inquiry, while fostering technical skills, teamwork, and scientific confidence — all essential for success in future biotech, medical, and STEM careers.
Developed in collaboration with the New Jersey Academy of Science (NJAS), the BRFP is committed to expanding access to biotechnology pathways for high school students across New Jersey — particularly those seeking opportunities beyond the traditional classroom.
Throughout the program, students engage in laboratory-based investigations and guided research development. At the conclusion of the fellowship:
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Participants will present their research at the 71st NJ Academy of Science Annual Meeting (Spring 2026)
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Top presenters will earn the opportunity to attend the 2027 NAAS/AJAS and AAAS Annual Meeting, gaining national recognition and networking exposure
By reaching students early in their academic journey, the BRFP helps build a diverse and well-prepared future STEM workforce, while equipping participants with critical thinking, technical expertise, and professional communication skills that extend far beyond the classroom.
Program Details
Target Audience: High School students
Addressing the Need
Despite New Jersey being a national leader in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, many high schools lack access to modern biotechnology curriculum, laboratory resources, or industry-aligned career pathways. As a result, thousands of talented students—especially those from under-resourced school districts—graduate without ever being exposed to the scientific fields driving innovation in their own state.
The Biotechnology Research Fellow Program (BRFP) directly addresses this gap by:
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Strengthening the biotech workforce pipeline through early, hands-on research training
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Introducing students to advanced laboratory methods and analytical tools used in real academic and industry research settings
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Demystifying careers in life sciences by connecting students with scientists, mentors, and biotech role models
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Building scientific confidence and belonging, ensuring students see themselves as future researchers, physicians, and innovators
By transforming access—not just to information, but to experience—this initiative helps students move beyond learning science to doing science, empowering them to pursue high-impact careers that shape the future of healthcare and technology.
Summer Program Dates: August 4–14, 2025
Location: Caldwell University, Raymond Hall
Program Schedule: Monday–Friday 9 AM – 4 PM
Week 1: Exploring STEM Careers & Developing Your Research Proposal
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Research topic exploration and background analysis
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Hands-on laboratory activities
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Guided mentorship sessions with STEM professionals to develop individual research proposals
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Industry field trip to a BioPharma facility
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Daily professional development seminars hosted by Caldwell University Career Services, covering:
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College application strategies
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FAFSA 101 and understanding financial aid packages
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Building a professional LinkedIn profile
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Week 2: Bringing Your Research to Life!
Students will:
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Design and conduct experiments in molecular biology, microscopy, and bioinformatics
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Receive scientific communication training, including:
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How to assemble a research poster
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Understanding data analysis and statistical significance
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Reviewing t-tests, ANOVA, and selecting appropriate tables and graphs
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Learn data interpretation, troubleshooting strategies, and professional presentation skills
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Present their work at the Caldwell University STEM Research Showcase, receiving feedback from scientists and industry leaders
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Participate in Career Seminars with Biotech Champions
Instructors: Cancer Biology Track – BRFP Summer Program Instructors: Darryl Aucoin, PhD - Chemistry - daucoin@caldwell.edu Jamie McCall, PhD - Immunology - jmcall@caldwell.edu Ms. Lisbeth Cerda, B.S - Cell Culture Specialist NJAS Representative: Kiruthika Balasubramanian, PhD - NJAS Executive Board Member / Memorial Sloan Kettering Research Assistants: Kamal Sah - Caldwell University Undergraduate - Undergraduate Research Mentor Neuroscience & Developmental Biology Track – BRFP Summer Program Instructor & NJAS Representative: Maria Agapito, PhD - Neuroscience & Developmental Biology - magapito@caldwell.edu NJAS Executive Board Member / Caldwell University Research Assistants: Pratishna Kc - Caldwell University Undergraduate - Undergraduate Research Mentor COHORT 1: Summer 2025 The 2025 cohort consisted of 18 rising sophomores, juniors and seniors.
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Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS) Industry Immersion Visit – BRFP Program Highlight
As part of the BRFP program, students participated in an exclusive industry immersion trip to Bristol Myers Squibb’s Lawrenceville campus in Princeton, NJ. This opportunity would not have been possible without the leadership and support of scientist Cynthia Inzano, our key liaison and primary point of contact at BMS.
Upon arrival, Ms. Inzano personally welcomed our group at the front desk, greeting students with enthusiasm and assisting everyone with their security name badges—setting a warm and professional tone for the day.
In an incredibly thoughtful gesture, BMS representatives prepared goody bags for every participant, along with hosting a full lunch for our group, making the students feel truly valued and celebrated.
Following registration, the group was officially welcomed by William H. Bullock, Executive Director of Small Molecule Drug Discovery Strategy & Integrated Operations at BMS.
The scientific sessions offered students an inside look at the drug discovery and development process:
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John Tokarski introduced Computer-Aided Drug Design (CADD) and how digital modeling accelerates discovery.
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Mary Ellen Cvijic and Trevor Sherwood discussed Lead Discovery, Optimization, and Chemical Design.
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Jennifer Price highlighted the critical role of Toxicology in ensuring medicine safety.
A spirited Q&A session allowed students to engage directly with BMS scientists before enjoying lunch and networking.
Students returned to campus energized and inspired by the experience. It was a wonderful day—every participant expressed excitement and left seriously considering future careers in the life sciences.
Special thanks to scientist Cynthia Inzano and the entire BMS team for creating an unforgettable and inspiring experience for our students.
STEM Showcase & Closing Ceremony
The Closing Ceremony and STEM Careers Event was held on Friday, August 15, 2025, in the Newman Center Lobby, bringing together students, faculty, and industry professionals for an inspiring culmination of the summer research program.
The event explored the central question: “What can you do with a degree in STEM?”, offering students firsthand insight into real-world career pathways in biotechnology, biopharmaceuticals, and academic research.
Event Highlights
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STEM Showcase Registration & Setup (10:45 AM)
Students prepared and displayed their research posters as guests arrived. -
Welcoming Remarks
Dr. Jeffrey Senese, President of Caldwell University, opened the ceremony with words of encouragement and recognition. -
Life Science Careers Panel (11:10 AM)
Moderated by Dr. William Velhagen, this powerful session featured accomplished scientists who shared their career journeys and advice:-
Cynthia Inzano, PhD — Senior Principal Scientist, Bristol Myers Squibb
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Kritika Bajaj, PhD — Lead Research Scientist, Croda Inc.
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Anjali Agrawal, PhD — Executive Director, Drug Product Development, Novo Nordisk
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Carmela Maffuccin, PhD — Medical Director, Global Medical Affairs, Janssen Pharmaceuticals (Johnson & Johnson)
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Poster Showcase (12:00 PM)
BRFP Fellows presented their research to faculty, peers, and industry leaders—demonstrating their growth in scientific inquiry and communication. -
Lunch & Networking (12:30 PM)
A relaxed and engaging opportunity for students to connect directly with panelists and mentors. -
Certificate Ceremony (1:00 PM)
Program Completion Certificates were presented by President Senese, followed by recognition of faculty mentors across:-
Cancer Biology: D. Aucoin, PhD; J. McCall, PhD; Ms. Lisbeth Cerda, BS
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Neuroscience & Developmental Biology: M. Agapito, PhD; Kiruthika Balasubramanian, PhD; Ms. Maritza Anaya, BS
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Reflections & Farewell
Closing remarks were delivered by Research Track Faculty, Dr. Kiruthika Balasubramanian (NJAS Representative), and Dr. George Abaunza, Vice President for Academic Affairs—celebrating the fellows’ achievements and encouraging their continued pursuit of STEM excellence.