Discovering the World of Bioscience with Maine Bioscience Day and The Baker Company

This year, we were proud to participate in Maine Bioscience Day, providing students with a unique opportunity to explore the fascinating world of bioscience. Maine Bioscience Day has been a beacon of inspiration for young minds for years. This year the committee embraced a hybrid approach to events, combining in-person volunteers with virtual video presentations. This dynamic format allowed our community to connect with students in new and engaging ways, fostering curiosity and a love for science.

As part of Maine Bioscience Day, students from Sanford Middle School had the unique opportunity to step inside The Baker Company’s world. The day was a series of three events, each offering a closer look at the intricate workings of bioscience.

1. Exploring Unique Airflow Characteristics in Bob’s Lab

Robert Thibeault, a seasoned expert at The Baker Company, guided the students through the unique airflow characteristics of our Biological Safety Cabinets (BSCs). Using a smoke demo, he illustrated how these units clean the air, ensuring the safety of scientists, their work, and the lab environment. A particle counter activity emphasized the importance of HEPA filters in maintaining air quality, revealing unseen particles that highlight the critical role of contamination control.

2. Unveiling Science Experiments in Dr. Kara Held’s Lab

In Dr. Held’s lab, students delved into the results of a captivating science experiment. Pressing their fingers onto agar culture plates, they later observed the growth of cultures in The Baker Company’s ReCO2ver Incubator. Dr. Held, with her expertise, explained the different bacteria present on our skin and provided insights into the processes conducted in the Biological Safety Cabinet.

3. Insights from The President: David Eagleson’s Presentation

The day concluded with a visit to the main conference room, where students had the privilege of hearing from David Eagleson, the President of The Baker Company. David shared the rich history of our company, elucidated the broader concept of bioscience, and offered a glimpse into the various job opportunities available. He also highlighted the benefits of living and working in the vibrant community of Maine.

Fueling Curiosity and Inspiring Future Scientists

Maine Bioscience Day at The Baker Company was more than an event; it was an immersive journey into the heart of bioscience. By combining virtual engagement with in-person experiences, we aimed to spark curiosity and passion for science in the next generation. We are proud to be part of this initiative, nurturing young minds and shaping the future of bioscience.

Learn more about BioME on their website here: https://biomaine.org/