Invitrogen Foundation Celebrates First Grant-Giving Programs

PharmaManufacturing.com
06/20/2008

What do actor Harrison Ford, sociobiologist E.O. Wilson, PhD, and $2 million have in common?  An unlikely combination upon first glance, the three were the focus of Wednesday’s dinner reception celebrating the kickoff of The Invitrogen Foundation’s philanthropic fund.

Ford, a conservationist, and Wilson, a world leader in entomology, were the keynote speakers at this event, where the Foundation announced that it now has over $2 million in its fund. The money, donated by Invitrogen Corporation, is to be used for all-ages science education programs. 

“We’re very pleased that the Invitrogen Foundation is making its first grants dedicated to increasing scientific literacy,” said Greg Lucier, chairman and chief executive officer of Invitrogen. “It was an honor to hear Dr. Wilson and Harrison Ford share their perspectives on the importance of science education, particularly as it relates to the environment. They have used their unique talents and perspectives to champion conservation and appreciation of the life sciences, and their efforts serve as a model for all of us.”

The Invitrogen Foundation has teamed up with the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) and Sally Ride Science for its first projects.  With NAS, the Foundation plans to “launch a public education campaign to engage people of all ages and levels of scientific expertise in learning more about today’s most pressing scientific issues,” according to a press release sent out Thursday.

In pairing with Sally Ride Science, the Foundation plans to help publish a book on biotechnology and careers and role models in the biotechnology field.