SPARC

Organization

Through our SPARC program, PSBR provides hands-on, career-infused biomedical science programming designed to inspire students to pursue further STEM-related education and careers.

PSBR was originally established by a coalition of groups representing academia, industry, and healthcare institutions. Since becoming a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in 1990, PSBR has engaged more than 45,000 students, 2,800 teachers, and 16,000 members of the public through its various education and outreach programs. In 2016, PSBR hired its first full-time outreach educator, now our Director of Education and Outreach, to develop and deliver biomedical education lessons to foster understanding and interest in the biomedical field to students across Pennsylvania. PSBR’s educational programming includes: The Great Grow Along, BioEYES delivery/partnership, annual student poster and essay contests, teacher professional development, and community engagement. As a result of the impact and success of its educational programs, PSBR established its SPARC (Science Program and Research Coach) program in 2019.