Training GMP operators

Through this training program, individuals with suitable skills and personal qualities — including non-academics and those from outside the industry — are prepared for pharmaceutical production activities in laboratory settings. In a three-month practice-oriented training course, we upskill industry outsiders as GMP operators for cell and gene therapy labs. This significantly increases the availability of skilled workers for the pharmaceutical industry and biotechnology companies across the Central German innovation region and actively counters the existing and growing shortage of skilled professionals in biotechnology companies in the region.

The program opens up new labor market opportunities for unemployed and job-seeking individuals. In addition, unemployed participants increase their chances of reintegration into the job market through the training.

The QualiBioPharma training is offered once a year as a full-time, in-person course at the BIO CITY Leipzig, starting each March. Up to 12 participants are admitted per course. The placement rate following completion is above average — already reaching 80% in the first run in 2023.

leap:up has secured reliable experts as cooperation partners for the project:

• The Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology is a recognized expert in cell technologies and vaccines, particularly in the field of cell and gene therapy. The institute also regularly offers GMP training programs (up to 100 trainees per year) for external industry partners and therefore already has substantial hands-on experience in adult education.