NOTE: Monsanto channeling GBP100k into schools for education, including debates on GM food, through the Biochemical Society.
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Biochemical Society Receives GBP113,000 from Monsanto Fund to Support the Production of Free Science Resources for Schools

Press Release for immediate release May 14th, 2009

Biochemical Society Receives GBP113,000 from Monsanto Fund to Support the Production of Free Science Resources for Schools

The Biochemical Society today announced it has received GBP113,000 from the Monsanto Fund, a private foundation and the philanthropic arm of the Monsanto Company, to continue funding the provision of new resources in support of secondary school science. 

The Society's education team have drawn on their extensive links with leading scientists and teachers in the development of a new web resource for teachers and students called "SciberBrain". The website www.SciberBrain.org tackles some of the key ethical issues in the UK science curriculum for 12-16 year olds and features free activities, games and animated slideshows that can be used online or in the classroom to inspire young people about recent developments in modern bioscience. Topics such as stem cell research, vaccinations and genetically modified organisms will be explored.

Where science textbooks have traditionally struggled to remain up to date with technological advances in some areas of bioscience, SciberBrain resources have the advantage of being much more easily informed by new developments. SciberBrain is aimed at key stages 3-4 and covers bioscience topics found in GCSE curricula but resources can be easily adapted to suit many age groups and ability levels. 

As well as existing as a resource for enhancing science lessons, SciberBrain guidance workshops are scheduled to enable scientists and teachers to host SciberBrain events in schools, universities and science festivals with the intention of furthering the public understanding of science.

Chris Kirk, the CEO of the Biochemical Society said "The Biochemical Society is delighted to team up with the Monsanto Fund to address the needs of teachers and students in the UK and internationally. This grant will allow us to support the teaching community by providing balanced and reliable information at the cutting edge of bioscience." 

Jane Thomson, Science Education Consultant to the Biochemical Society added "Through presenting bioscience in a flexible and engaging framework, this project will save time for teachers and inspire children at school By addressing social and scientific aspects of bioscience in schools, we can equip young people with skills they will find useful throughout their lives”

Bridget Badiou of the Monsanto Fund commented "This project is very much in line with our focus areas and Jane Thomson, through her work, is able to reach out to many teachers and students rendering science fun to learn and to teach. We are delighted to see the success of the work being done and the positive feedback provided. This is the second year we have been in a position to help fund this initiative". 

Information for editors.

The Biochemical Society places great importance on education at every level and has a proven track record with outreach activities including the provision of scientific conferences and careers support for its members. For more information visit the Biochemical Society at http://www.biochemistry.org

The Monsanto Fund, established in 1964, provides support in four focus areas: Nutritional Improvement through Agriculture; Healthy Environment; Science Education; and Our Communities. For more information on the Monsanto Fund, visithttp://www.monsantofund.org/.

Photos of a giant cheque being presented to the Biochemical Society team are available... People in the picture from left to right are; Bridget Badiou (Monsanto Fund), Hannah Baker, Chris Kirk and Jane Thomson (all Biochemical Society).