The NIIMBL eXperience is an Immersive Program That Connects K–12 Educators with Industry Experts to Discuss Clear Pathways into Biopharmaceutical Careers
LAFAYETTE, LA, February 2026 — The University of Louisiana at Lafayette (UL Lafayette) has been selected as one-of-six schools to host the inaugural NIIMBL eXperience, an immersive program that will give K–12 science, technology, engineering, and manufacturing (STEM) teachers an inside look at the biopharmaceutical industry, equipping them to inspire the next generation.
UL Lafayette’s selection as host of the inaugural NIIMBL eXperience for Educators on June 3, 2026, at UL Lafayette reflects the University’s growing national leadership in biopharmaceutical education, research, and workforce development.
“This selection demonstrates that UL Layette’s efforts to bridge the gap between academic research and industrial application are being recognized,” says Dr. Raikhy, BioTech Operations Manager at UL Lafayette. “By providing our educators with real-world industry exposure, we are creating the foundation for a skilled workforce that will drive Acadiana’s economic future.”
With the support of the New Iberia Research Center (NIRC) and Louisiana Economic Development Authority (LEDA), this program will offer hands-on activities, direct industry engagement, and networking opportunities. Participating educators will gain a deeper understanding of real-world industry practices, emerging technologies, and high-demand career pathways.
Mandi Mitchell, President and CEO of Lafayette Economic Development Authority, is confident the NIIMBL eXperience impact goes far beyond the classroom. She says, “Programs like this strengthen the talent pipeline, expose students to high-value career pathways, and reinforce Louisiana’s competitiveness in the biopharmaceutical industry. LEDA is proud to support UL Lafayette and serve as one of its partners in this effort.”
The impact of the NIIMBL eXperience will connect educators with industry partners, building long-term relationships that support workforce development and introduce students to real-world career opportunities.
To Apply, Visit: https://vpresearch.louisiana.edu/NIIMBL.
About UL Lafayette’s R1 Research
Under the leadership and direction of the Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Economic Development, we are responsible for overseeing University functions related to research and scholarship.
These include stimulating and supporting sponsored research, technology transfer and other economic development activities, the operation of the University Research Park and many of the research centers on campus. In addition, we are responsible for building strong, supportive alliances with local, regional, state, and national business, governmental, and industrial leaders that will result in bringing funding, equipment, services and other resources to the University.
For More Information Contact Dr. Gaurav Raikhy: gaurav.raikhy@louisiana.edu
About LEDA
With an entrepreneurial spirit and Cajun and Creole cultures known around the world, Lafayette, Louisiana is a unique environment for work and living.
LEDA is dedicated to assisting businesses in Lafayette, LA and the neighboring municipalities in Lafayette Parish (County).
For More Information, visit: https://lafayette.org/
About NIIMBL
The National Institute for Innovation in Manufacturing Biopharmaceuticals (NIIMBL) is a public-private partnership whose mission is to accelerate biopharmaceutical innovation, support the development of standards that enable more efficient and rapid manufacturing capabilities, and educate and train a world-leading biopharmaceutical manufacturing workforce, fundamentally advancing U.S. competitiveness in this industry. NIIMBL is part of Manufacturing USA®, a network of federally sponsored manufacturing innovation institutes, and is funded through a cooperative agreement with the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in the U.S. Department of Commerce with additional support from its members.
For More Information Contact Daniel Maiese, Communications Manager: dmaiese@niimbl.org
ors with real-world industry exposure, we are creating the foundation for a skilled workforce that will drive Acadiana’s economic future.”
With the support of the New Iberia Research Center (NIRC) and Louisiana Economic Development Authority (LEDA), this program will offer hands-on activities, direct industry engagement, and networking opportunities. Participating educators will gain a deeper understanding of real-world industry practices, emerging technologies, and high-demand career pathways.
Mandi Mitchell, President and CEO of Lafayette Economic Development Authority, is confident the NIIMBL eXperience impact goes far beyond the classroom. She says, “Programs like this strengthen the talent pipeline, expose students to high-value career pathways, and reinforce Louisiana’s competitiveness in the biopharmaceutical industry. LEDA is proud to support UL Lafayette and serve
About LEDA
With an entrepreneurial spirit and Cajun and Creole cultures known around the world, Lafayette,
