Bristol Myers Squibb, the global pharmaceutical company based in Lawrenceville, has a long-stated mission to discover, develop and deliver innovative medicines to help patients prevail over serious diseases.
They also are dedicated to nurturing and developing the next generation of STEM leaders. The company has a global directive to foster the development and engagement of young minds in STEM education and careers through various initiatives and partnerships.
“Bristol Myers Squibb is committed to raising awareness about the importance of STEM and we have expanded our global footprint on STEM to provide resources, mentorship, and opportunities to students and young leaders around the world. We actively partner with universities and research centers, supporting cutting-edge projects, including organizing innovation challenges and hackathons to find novel solutions to healthcare and biomedical challenges,” Chétna Rao, head, Global R&D STEM Strategy, Bristol Myers Squibb said.
“Cultivating a strong pipeline of future STEM talent is crucial for sustained growth and innovation, and these initiatives play a pivotal role in nurturing that talent. As we continue to prioritize STEM, on National STEM Day and every day, it not only advances scientific progress but also contributes to building a brighter future for individuals and communities worldwide,” Rao said.
On National STEM DAY, here are four ways BMS is actively working toward empowering the next generation of innovators:
Promoting STEM education: The BMS STEM Council serves as the driving force behind STEM-related activities within the company. Formed in 2018, the STEM Council aims to raise awareness about the importance of STEM and fosters a culture of scientific excellence and cross-collaboration across all departments and teams to enhance productivity and scientific advancements.
Encouraging diversity and inclusion: Diversity and inclusion are essential aspects of BMS’ STEM efforts. Investing in STEM not only drives technological advancements but also promotes diversity, inclusion and equality within the scientific community. By partnering with organizations like the Scientist Mentoring & Diversity Program (SMDP) and other minority-focused STEM associations, BMS provides mentorship, scholarships and internships to help students from diverse backgrounds thrive in STEM fields.
Inspiring innovation and collaboration: The company’s STEM Council acknowledges that breakthroughs in science often occur at the intersection of disciplines. To foster innovation, the Council promotes collaboration between academia, industry and government institutions. BMS is actively involved with universities and research centers, supporting cutting-edge projects and organizing innovation challenges and hackathons to find novel solutions to healthcare and biomedical challenges.
Partnering for community impact: BMS actively participates in STEM outreach programs in New Jersey and around the country (and around the globe) by supporting and participating in events such as:
· The Mercer County Boys & Girls Club Teen STEM Conference
· BOLD: Tomorrows Innovators STEM Scholarship Program
· BrightPath STEAM Summer Camp
· ESB Science Blast in Ireland
· AMIT in Spain
