07/29/2026
Today, We’re proud to announce that applications are officially open for the Fall 2026 LIFT-VA Cohort.
LIFT-VA (Life-Sciences Innovation & Future Talent – Virginia) was created to solve one of the greatest challenges facing our region—and our nation: developing the next generation of life sciences talent through meaningful, hands-on experience.
This isn't a summer camp or a lecture series.
It's a workforce development program where students work alongside scientists, gain real laboratory experience, build professional skills, and prepare for careers in biotechnology, healthcare, diagnostics, biomanufacturing, and emerging life sciences industries.
Participants receive:
• Hands-on laboratory training inside Athari BioSciences' BSL-2, CLIA-certified laboratory
• ACE-aligned curriculum with the opportunity to earn transferable college credit as participants advance through the program
• Mentorship from scientists and industry professionals
• Direct exposure to life sciences employers and workforce opportunities
• A professional skills portfolio documenting workforce-ready competencies
Most importantly...
There is no tuition. No debt. No barriers to getting started.
Fall 2026 Program Timeline
Applications Open
July 29 – August 14
Program Runs
September 21- November 21
Weekly Schedule
Saturday Laboratory Sessions
• AM Session: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
• PM Session: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM
Virtual Learning
• One 2-hour instructor-led virtual session (Monday–Thursday evenings, 6:00–8:00 PM)
• One hour of self-paced coursework each week
This flexible hybrid model allows students to gain real laboratory experience while balancing school, work, and other commitments.
Whether you're a college student exploring career options or a high school/grade school student passionate about science, LIFT-VA was designed to help you build the knowledge, confidence, and experience employers are looking for.
We are building more than a program.
We are building Virginia's life sciences workforce—one student at a time.
Apply today at: www.lift-va.org
LIFT-VA is powered by Future Kings STEM, Athari Bio, and Genomic Education Mentors & Scientists (GEMS) with support from GO Northern Virginia Region 7 and an expanding network of employer and education partners committed to strengthening the Commonwealth's biotechnology workforce.
Proud to build this alongside our team and partners: Susan Mitchell, Tshaka Cunningham, Kareem Washington, MS, PhD, Jeannett Jackman, M.Sc., Sonora Jackson, Lauryn Mitchell, MSB, PMP, Bonny Taggart, Dr. Arik King, Ron Mosley, FACHE, Dr. Neville Welch, Lisa Shapiro, M.Ed., John Newby, JD, CAE, Helena Kondow-McConaghy, Ph.D., Nancy Evanko, Amy Adams, Eleanor Wagoner, Farhang Alem, Tracy Fitzsimmons, Julie Leidig