The award recognizes projects that make a special contribution to economic development and to solving social challenges, such as the shortage of skilled workers. As part of QualiBioPharma, people from outside the industry are trained for the pharmaceutical industry and biotechnology companies in the Central German region.

The three-month, practice-oriented training course for up to 12 participants comprises six modules. In addition to all relevant occupational health and safety regulations and instructions on biological safety, QualiBioPharma teaches the basics of the structure and working methods in a biological or biochemical laboratory. Further learning content is aimed at a basic understanding of cells and immunology, mathematical calculations in the laboratory and the basics of good manufacturing practice (GMP), quality management and cell therapy. In addition, participants in the program are trained in the use of various analytical devices, aseptic bag and tube systems and undergo practical training in the laboratory from pipetting to cryopreservation. A total of two rounds of QualiBioPharma have already been carried out.

Mirko Müller, project manager in the Department of GMP Cell and Gene Therapy at Fraunhofer IZI, is in charge of the training program.