As one of the world’s foremost biotechnology companies, Amgen is keenly aware of the value and importance of science education. That is why we are committed to supporting science education programs aimed at encouraging bright young minds to explore a future in science. By improving access to resources for students and teachers, raising the community’s understanding of the value of science literacy, and developing a pipeline of future science professionals, Amgen is doing its part to preserve the future of science learning along the education continuum.

Science Education Programs

The Amgen Foundation supports numerous local and national organizations aimed at expanding opportunities for science education.  The Foundation has partnered with organizations dedicated to cultivating and preserving students’ interest in the sciences through hands-on science experiences and professional development for teachers.  In addition, the Foundation is dedicated to continuing its support for organizations that provide assistance to underrepresented groups in the sciences, such as women.

Some of the current science education outreach programs sponsored by the Amgen include the following:

The Amgen Bruce Wallace Biotechnology Laboratory Program is an educational outreach program that provides equipment, curriculum assistance and supplies to high schools and colleges. The program integrates a hands-on, inquiry-based molecular biology curriculum designed to introduce, with extensive teacher support, the excitement of scientific discovery to students. Each year, over 10,000 high school and college students and faculty participate in this laboratory experience and have the opportunity to explore some of the important steps involved in creating novel therapeutics.

Each year at the American Society of Hematology  Annual High School Student Symposium, Amgen conducts a workshop giving students the opportunity to learn directly from leading experts in science and medicine while exposing them to career opportunities in the fields. The symposium uses a mix of didactic lecture sessions and hands-on demonstrations to introduce students to the exciting and interesting area of hematology.

Amgen Award for Science Teaching Excellence

Since 1992, Amgen has encouraged excellence in science education by recognizing and honoring extraordinary public and private school science teachers who teach grades K-12, with the Amgen Award for Science Teaching Excellence (AASTE). Since the program’s inception, Amgen has awarded more than $1.7 million dollars to educators who have made extraordinary contributions to science teaching and who have had a measurable impact on the lives of their students.