Bio workforce training grows in incheon, South Korea

In Incheon, South Korea, the National Bioengineering Workforce Training Center, known as K-NIBERT, is currently training 2,528 people in biotechnology.

The center opened in November of last year in Songdo International City and was established through a national project involving the South Korean government, Incheon City, Yonsei University, and Incheon Techno Park. K-NIBERT modeled its educational system after National Institute for Bioprocessing Research and Training in Ireland, with funding of 50 billion won.

K-NIBERT offers over 15 customized training courses, including programs on antibody and mRNA production for aspiring entrepreneurs, specialized courses for existing bio company employees, and cell therapy education. 555 trainees are currently receiving hands-on education in facilities that simulate real bio company production environments. Songdo International City is home to major biotechnology companies like Celltrion, Samsung Biologics, and SK Bioscience. These companies are also supporting workforce development.

Celltrion runs a practical training program for local talent, while Samsung Biologics and Samsung Bioepis partner with Yonsei University’s College of Life Science to offer scholarships. Cytoiva Korea’s FastTrack Center provides advanced equipment and programs for training specialists.