Amgen Foundation Redesigns "LabXChange" Science Education Platform

LabXchange, an online science education platform developed by the Amgen Foundation and Harvard University, is redesigning the science experience for students around the world. Designed to create an equitable learning space and promote science literacy for all, LabXchange is providing free access to personalized education in scientific fields, virtual laboratory experiences, and networking opportunities to science communities worldwide during this challenging period caused by COVID-19. The Amgen Foundation's online science education platform LabXchange offers future scientists the opportunity to directly explore the scientific process. LabXchange was developed in partnership between the Amgen Foundation and Harvard University's Faculty of Arts and Sciences (Harvard FAS). During this challenging period caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, LabXchange provides users in science communities around the world with access to personalized education in scientific fields, virtual laboratory experiences, and networking opportunities. Güldem Berkman, General Manager of Amgen Turkey and Gensenta, stated: "Many students do not have access to the scientific process, which includes developing hypotheses, understanding a methodology, and learning how to apply it to an appropriate experimental problem. Our goal is to increase inclusivity in the scientific process and to encourage collaborations that develop creative, team-based approaches to real-world problems. With LabXchange, more students will be able to come together and experience how enjoyable discovery can be. This feature of LabXchange is particularly valuable during the fight against COVID-19. During these difficult times caused by the coronavirus outbreak, LabXchange also provides guidance to parents in showing their children learning pathways. We are excited about its potential to educate and inspire students of all ages and lifelong learners."

Over $150 million contributed to science education programs

LabXchange, a free online science education platform, was built upon other Amgen Foundation programs supporting science education, such as the Amgen Biotech Experience and Amgen Scholars, which are conducted at Harvard and other institutions around the world. LabXchange, which redesigns the science experience for students around the world, removes educational barriers through purposeful personalized instruction. Virtual laboratory simulations help students acquire the scientific skills needed to solve tomorrow's challenges. By simulating fundamental techniques in molecular and cellular biology, such as using CRISPR to correct genetic disorders, students have the opportunity to explore various scientific methods and learn to use science to solve real-life problems. Designed to create an equitable learning space and promote science literacy for all, LabXchange provides free access to a world-class educational content library including videos, interactive simulations, and assessments. The platform, with its material selection and compilation features, offers teachers the ability to create classes or flexible learning pathways that complement existing science curricula. Additionally, through the platform's global networking functionality, teachers have the opportunity to collaborate beyond a single classroom, school, or region. To date, the Amgen Foundation has contributed more than $150 million to science education programs with its mission to facilitate global collaboration under the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), specifically Goal 4 on Quality Education and Goal 3 on Good Health and Well-being.