The 2026 Education & Workforce Development Conference hosted by Gloucester Marine Genomics Institute will focus on the importance of collaboration in building a resilient life sciences workforce. As the biotechnology industry continues to face uncertainty and cycles of rapid growth and contraction, the conference will provide a forum to explore how industry leaders, education providers, workforce training organizations, public officials, and funders can work together to promote long-term workforce sustainability, equitable access to opportunity, and a strong, diverse talent pipeline.
Through shared perspectives and candid discussion, participants will identify practical solutions to better anticipate change, respond collectively, and build an inclusive workforce that is adaptable and prepared for the future.
The conference will take place on Thursday, April 16th from 8:30a to 3:30p at Cruiseport Gloucester, a beautiful venue on the Gloucester harbor.
Featured presenters:
Melodie Knowlton, Ph.D., Sr. Director, Community Affairs at Vertex Pharmaceuticals and
Executive Director, Vertex Foundation & Head of STEAM Education
Kirk Taylor, MD, President and CEO, Massachusetts Life Sciences Center