For the third consecutive year, Delaware County Community College students are spending their summer not just learning about science, but actively contributing to it.
Four students have been selected for The Wistar Institute’s highly competitive Biomedical Technician Training Program (BTT), a paid, credit-earning pre-apprenticeship designed to prepare the next generation of laboratory technicians and biomedical research professionals.
This year’s participants are Nidier McCurdy of Secane, Maria Andrea Rivas Ordonez of Ridley Park, Aiyana Southerland of Sharon Hill, and Busra Busra of Philadelphia.
The opportunity places students inside one of the nation’s leading biomedical research institutions, where they gain hands-on experience with advanced laboratory techniques while working alongside experts tackling some of today’s most pressing health challenges.
Training Alongside Leaders in Biomedical Research
Based in Philadelphia, The Wistar Institute is internationally recognized for its work in cancer research, immunology, infectious diseases, and vaccine development.
The Biomedical Technician Training Program was created to address the growing need for skilled laboratory technicians and research assistants in the life sciences industry. Selection is highly competitive and requires students to submit academic transcripts, faculty recommendations, personal statements outlining their educational and career goals, and complete an interview process.
The 12-week program begins with an intensive two-week laboratory training course at The Wistar Institute before students move into two separate five-week internship placements within academic or industry biomedical laboratories.
Participants also earn academic credit through Delaware County Community College’s Student Employment Services internship program.
Building Career Pathways in the Life Sciences
Beyond providing hands-on experience, the program serves as an important stepping stone into Pennsylvania’s growing biotechnology workforce.
The Biomedical Technician Training Program is a registered pre-apprenticeship that can lead to The Wistar Institute’s Fox Biomedical Research Technician Apprenticeship — the first registered nontraditional apprenticeship program in biomedical research approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry.
The program is led by Kristy Shuda McGuire, Ph.D., Dean of Biomedical Studies at The Wistar Institute, and is facilitated through Delaware County Community College’s Student Employment and Co-op Center.
Biology Professors Bela Dadhich, Ph.D., and Robert Suran, Ph.D., serve as Faculty Liaisons for participating students.
“Our DCCC students are learning cutting-edge technology with leaders in the field,” Dadhich said. “It is a phenomenal opportunity.”
Expanding Opportunities Beyond the Classroom
Programs like the Biomedical Technician Training Program help bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application, giving students valuable experience, professional connections, and a clearer pathway into careers in Biomedical Research and Biotechnology.
Learn more about Delaware County Community College’s science programs, internship opportunities, and workforce development initiatives, and discover how the College is preparing students for careers in high-demand industries through hands-on learning, employer partnerships, and innovative educational experiences.
