BiTmaP is an online bioinformatics training program initiated by Chicago Technology Park and conducted through the University of Illinois at Chicago. BiTmaP provides a bridge between unemployed or underemployed information technology (IT) professionals and the bioinformatics needs of the life science community. BiTmaP provides a sustainable program that ensures Midwest bioinformatics expertise to fill new jobs and support development and expansion of new and existing businesses.

The Program employs online education supplemented with mentoring and career development support to enable the Program’s students to identify and secure internship and job opportunities in the field of Bioinformatics. BiTmaP has established a network of relationships with regional businesses, learning institutions, industrial organizations, and workforce development agencies.

BiTmaP is a $6 million program sponsored by the Chicago Technology Park and a $3 million grant from the U.S. Department of Labor as part of the H-1B Technical Skills Training Grant Program.  Through this grant, the Program provides tuition sponsorship for students who meet the enrollment criteria, are accepted into the Program, and meet the ongoing Program requirements.  As well, BiTmaP provides career development support and assistance in locating internship and job opportunities for the Program’s students.

The Chicago Technology Park has selected the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) as the Program’s academic provider leading to the development of an innovative bioinformatics curriculum and online training for students. Courses are designed to facilitate the students' transition to a new career by developing skills in bioinformatics programs and protocols used widely throughout industry and academia. BiTmaP teaches life sciences information needed for bioinformatics from an information technology perspective.

BiTmaP students take 3 courses over 3 semesters. Some students may qualify for an accelerated course of study. During the Program, students are encouraged and assisted in locating and securing an internship in the field that provides hands-on experience with the bioinformatics skills learned in the Program.

How to get involved in the BiTmaP program?
Contact:
Gary Keller, MsB
Xomix Ltd CEO
Chicago Technology Park
Strategic Initiatives and Workfroce Development
312-243-1298
bitmap@techpark.com

APPLY NOW!