Top college scientists compete to make biotech
1:00 pm
Fri October 9, 2009

Top college scientists compete to make biotech grade

When it comes to diversifying

Charlotte 's economy, many area boosters point to biotechnology as an industry with a lot of potential.

Yesterday, the Charlotte Biotechnology Conference at UNC Charlotte focused on this potential and some of the research taking place.

There was also a scientific competition among some top next-generation scientists. It's actually called a poster competion, and it's sot of like a mini-science fair for adults.

Graduate students line up their posters on tripods. There are flow charts, photo illustrations and lots of scientific jargon to help explain their research.

But the students are really hoping you'll ask them about it.

The students are judged in three areas: The quality of research, poster presentation and the commercial applications of the research.

The research was diverse. For example, one project focused on anti-cancer viruses that kill brain tumors. Another researcher is trying to deveop a spray that kills e-coli surfaces like your kitchen counter.

Ten students competed for four cash prizes that ranged from $250 to $1,000.

Click here to listen to the story and hear students talk about their research.