Cégep Gérald-Godin: Empowering the Next Generation of Advanced Therapies Innovators: Workforce and Infrastructure Development

Gérald-Godin College (GG) and its applied research center, CERASP, are among the newest institutions in Quebec's education and innovation network. As such, they have faced funding and infrastructure challenges, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. The NSERC Mobilize grant would allow us to expand our ability to support the pharmaceutical industry and train students and professionals in cutting-edge technologies, especially in the fast-growing field of advanced therapies (AT), like RNA vaccines and gene therapies. GG-CERASP works closely with industry and educational partners to create hands-on learning and applied research opportunities. Much of our current equipment was part of the initial set-up of the Biopharmaceutical Production Technologies from the 2009 and with a focus on traditional drug forms like, capsules, tablets, vials, ointments and syrups. Thanks to recent grants, we were able to acquire a BioMek i5, Glove box, Bioreactors, AktaFlux (TFF), and other key equipment for Advanced Therapies we are now working on setting up along with new ISO7/8 cleanroom and biosafety lab facilities that will allow us to work with next-generation therapies. However, we need operational support to fully use this equipment, hire key staff, and provide updated training to students, interns, and professionals. The Mobilize funding will help us hire 3 researchers, 4 technicians, and a lab manager to support small-scale production, testing, and troubleshooting of therapies like RNA-based medicines. We will also develop new educational content and training programs for college students, staff, and industry professionals. These programs will teach skills that are urgently needed in the job market-especially cleanroom and GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) knowledge required by companies like Moderna. We aim to train up to 40 interns per year and significantly increase our support to industry. We are also focusing on greener, safer alternatives to traditional pharmaceutical processes. Our work on sustainable production methods using Deep Eutectic Solvents (DESs) will reduce environmental impact and improve health and safety. With this grant, GG-CERASP can better support local and national partners, helping them innovate while preparing the next generation of skilled workers for the Canadian life sciences sector.