Sanofi-Aventis BioTalent challenge.

BioTalent Canada, a national sponsor of the Sanofi-Aventis BioTalent Challenge (SABC) program, is pleased to announce the Government of Canada's funding renewal of the program and the launch of the 2007-2008 challenge.

"We are very excited about this," says Colette Rivet, executive director of BioTalent Canada. "We will be able to reach more students, build on past program successes, and have all regional winners come to Ottawa for a face-to-face national competition in the spring."

The SABC provides high school students with a unique research experience because while working along side a mentor in an actual research facility, students acquire valuable communication skills--essential for success in today's bio-economy.

To date, through the SABC program, approximately 2,856 students have gained a deeper insight into the world of biotechnology, which helped them form their career paths. "This success is due to the contributions of over 100 partners across the country," says Mark Lievonen, president Sanofi Pasteur Limited. "This would not be possible without national partners such as HRSDC, the national coordinator, the Canadian Biotechnology Education Resource Centre (CBERC), regional coordinators, numerous local sponsors across the country, and the passion of the teachers and mentors who volunteer their time to give the students hands-on experience in the world of biotechnology."

Since 1994, these annual science competitions, now in 13 regions across the country, have raised awareness among students, educators and the public about biotechnology. Participating students experience real-life research first hand while working along side a mentor and gain valuable communication skills through the competition. For more information on the program visit www.sanofibiotalentchallenge.ca.

Sanofi-Aventis BioTalent Challenge