UMBI's flagship education programs include the Maryland Loaner Lab (MDLL) and SciTech, on-site student laboratory. The MDLL offers comprehensive biotechnology curriculum and lab activities available in a self-contained kit. Each kit, delivered via Fed-Ex, contains all of the reagents, equipment, background information and protocols for students to conduct inquiry-based science activities in the classroom. Since it began in 2004, the MDLL has served over 16,400 students in 20 of the 24 Maryland school districts.

SciTech offers students the opportunity to experience biotechnology first-hand in our dedicated student laboratory led by an expert instructor. Located UMBI's Center for Marine Biotechnology in Baltimore's Inner Harbor, SciTech has served over 25,000 students since its inception. All of UMBI's curricula are aligned with Maryland's Voluntary State Curriculum.

UMBI also has a strong history of teacher professional development. Throughout the school year, teachers are trained to incorporate biotechnology activities into their classroom curricula. In an innovative partnership with the University System of Maryland and Montgomery County Public Schools, UMBI scientists work with teachers to explore the role of inquiry in science and translate their experiences into classroom activities. UMBI also offers summer professional development for teachers to explore the use of inquiry based lab activities in teaching science.

Contact Education and Outreach for more information on these programs.