Prosper by mobio

06/12/2026

Day two brought another full day of discovery, innovation, and career exploration for students on MOBIO’s S2J Summer Biotech Bus Tour.

Students spent the day exploring the wide range of opportunities within Missouri’s growing ag tech and life sciences industries through hands-on activities, facility tours, and conversations with professionals across the field.

At Novus International, students learned how science and innovation support animal nutrition and health. They had the chance to hear from professionals working in animal science, chemistry, biochemistry, IT, regulatory affairs, and quality assurance while touring labs focused on analytical chemistry, microbiology, biological assays, and formulation chemistry.

Students also got an inside look at Bayer, through a behind-the-scenes facility tour and participated in an interactive Farmer Game STEM activity that showcased the role technology and innovation play in modern agriculture.

During lunch, the group connected with industry professionals through a career pathways panel moderated by Sarah LaPlante, MSW of 39 North. Panelists Stephanie Gamez (Agragene Inc), Kelsey Jenkins (Plastomics, Inc.) and Sr. Scientist Emily Indriolo, Ph.D. shared their career journeys, insights into the biotechnology industry, and advice for students interested in life sciences careers.

The day concluded with a visit to Inotiv, where students learned more about the company’s work supporting research and innovation in the life sciences sector while hearing from members of their team.

A special thank you to Novus, Bayer, 39 North, Agragene, Plastomics, St. Louis Community College, and Inotiv for opening your doors, sharing your expertise, and giving students a firsthand look at the innovation and career opportunities shaping Missouri’s agtech and life sciences industries.

06/10/2026

MOBIO is thrilled to kick off another S2J Summer BioTech Bus Tour this week for high school students across Missouri.

Our first stop today was Missouri Southern State University, where students explored the Health Science Simulation Labs and gained hands-on exposure to Anatomage tables featuring electronic cadavers offering an innovative glimpse into health science education and technology.

Next, students visited Missouri S&T, where they explored the Green Roof and learned how environmental engineering supports sustainable infrastructure. They also participated in hands-on experiences in the Makers Studio and bioengineering labs before hearing about the interdisciplinary innovation happening within the Bioplex, the university’s planned new research and education facility.

We wrapped up the day at the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, where students learned how plant science research is improving the human condition. Students explored the nonprofit research environment, viewed advanced lab spaces, and gained insight into careers across research teams and core facilities.

A huge thank you to Missouri Southern State University, Missouri S&T, and the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center for hosting our students and helping inspire the next generation of Missouri’s biotech workforce.

06/04/2026

This week, MOBIO was proud to participate in Missouri Southern State University's 2026 Science 2 Jobs Summer Academy, engaging more than 150 middle school and junior high students through hands-on experiences in biotechnology, plant science, and emerging technology.

Students explored our Discovery Trailer, Greenhouses, and immersive BioZone VR technology featuring plant science experiences, gaining exposure to innovative careers and concepts shaping the future of STEM.

One of the highlights included our forensic DNA electrophoresis activity, where students stepped into the role of scientists and learned how DNA analysis is used in real-world applications.

Thank you to Missouri Southern State University for partnering with MOBIO to create meaningful life sciences learning opportunities that inspired the next generation of innovators, researchers, and industry leaders across Missouri.

05/22/2026

PROSPER by MOBIO had an amazing time visiting students at SSt. Francis Borgia High School 🧬🔬

Students explored life sciences in an interactive way through our BioZone VR headsets and Hands-on Mobile Science Labs, giving them the opportunity to experience STEM learning beyond the classroom. From virtual reality exploration to engaging lab activities, it was incredible to see their curiosity and excitement in action.

Interested in bringing these free resources to your school or program? Reserve your experience today at prospermo.org

04/15/2026

PROPSER by MOBIO had a great day with middle and high school students from Sarcoxie R-II School District. More than 100 students had the chance to step inside MOBIO’s Immersion Trailer, explore VR experiences and NASA-inspired greenhouse systems, and experience drone demonstrations in action.

It was an exciting opportunity to bring hands-on STEM learning directly to students and spark curiosity about the many careers in life sciences. Thank you to the students and staff for the warm welcome and for making it such a great visit.

Learn more about our free life sciences resources: https://www.prospermo.org

04/10/2026

Check out Missouri’s Science 2 Jobs (S2J) initiative in action!

MOBIO is sparking curiosity and expanding life sciences career awareness across the state through S2J, including most recently with fifth and sixth graders at Osage County R2 Schools - Linn Wildcats.

From stepping inside our Immersion Trailer to exploring NASA-inspired greenhouse systems, VR headsets and drone technology, students gained hands-on exposure to the tools shaping today’s STEM careers.

“There are many career opportunities using STEM,” said said Kelly Gillespie, executive director of MOBIO. “This is just a few of them. This opens the door for students to grasp that there are all sorts of applications and careers using this kind of technology. Our innovative science experiences are delivered directly to students and communities at no cost. We remove funding and logistical barriers, ensuring access to enriching opportunities.”

Thank you to editor Neal Johnson for highlighting our work, Executive Committee Board Member Julie Baker for the connection and Debbie Brandt Wagner for helping make the visit such a success.

Read more: https://www.unterrifieddemocrat.com/stories/missouri-based-stem-program-brings-hands-on-science-career-exploration-to-linn-r-2-students,269804?

LINN — Linn R-2 fifth and sixth-grade students explored real-world applications of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) through a traveling, grant-funded program that brought …

04/07/2026

PROSPER by MOBIO brought hands-on life sciences learning to St. Teresa's Academy last week, where students practiced micropipetting and electrophoresis. 🧬

Their teachers also reserved MOBIO’s BioZone VR headsets, a free resource that provides a full set of 30 headsets pre-loaded with interactive modules for a two-week period. This allows students to continue exploring through immersive learning across AP Biology, Forensic Biology, Biology, AP Environmental Science, and Advanced Biology.

Thank you to MOBIO Board Member Dennis Ridenour, his daughter Elerie Ridenour, and the team at St. Teresa’s Academy for making this visit possible.

Interested in bringing this experience to your students? Visit www.prospermo.org

03/31/2026

What a great day at Linn Elementary! 🚐🔬

Students had the opportunity to step inside PROSPER by MOBIO's Immersion Trailer, which includes greenhouses and VR headsets, and see our drone in action. They got hands-on exposure to the tools and technologies shaping today’s STEM careers.

We’re grateful for opportunities like this to spark curiosity and introduce students to the exciting possibilities within life sciences.

A special thank you to our Executive Committee Board Member, Julie Baker, for connecting us with the school, and to Debbie Brandt Wagner for helping coordinate such a seamless and successful visit.

👉 Learn more and reserve your free resources today: www.prospermo.org

03/17/2026

What a great day at Sikeston High School Job Olympics 2026! 🚐🔬

Thank you for having us. We loved being part of such an impactful event and connecting with so many incredible students.

03/17/2026

Students from across the region will showcase their research and innovation at the Missouri Southern Regional Science Fair, hosted by Missouri Southern State University on Tuesday, March 24. The 37th annual event will bring together middle and high school students to compete across STEM categories ranging from microbiology and chemistry to engineering and environmental science.

Top projects may advance to national competitions such as the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair, highlighting the next generation of scientists and innovators.



Discover more:

Missouri Southern State University hosts the annual Regional Science Fair on the last Tuesday of March. The 37th Missouri Southern Regional Science Fair (MSRSF) will be held at MSSU Billingsly Student Center on Tuesday, March 24, 2026. The MSRSF is open to middle school and high school students (5th...