I have been attending different scientific conferences, exhibits, and courses since the days of my Ph.D. training, well over 30 years ago. Some highlights include the Society for Neuroscience, the Microscopy Society, the Biophysical Society, and Photonics.
The Vermont Booth.
My background is in Cellular Biology and Fluorescence Imaging and my current position as Applications Scientist for Chroma Technology mostly involves training users with advanced microscopy equipment to use our optics for biomedical research and fluorescence, as well as diagnostic applications.
When the VBSA Board of Directors first started talking about the BIO International Convention, I did a little research and thought that the Convention looked interesting, but mostly it looked “marketing and sales”–oriented. However, I figured any meeting or conference with this many people attending had to have something to offer, right? I thought that I would wear my “Vermont Biosciences Hat” for the meeting and see.
A small corner of the BIO International Convention floor.
I must say that I was very pleasantly surprised! Having all these countries, states, and businesses represented was not only a treat for the eyes but much more interesting (at a variety of levels) than I could have imagined. There were actually several companies there that we, at Chroma, do business with around the world. And there were several people who knew researchers whom I have worked with over the years, especially from Core Facilities (mostly at Universities) that do fluorescence and imaging research. I ended up with several business cards and emails from folks interested in future work, and I have heard from several already about different projects that they think I might be able to help with.
In addition, the participants and attendees were curious, energetic, and truly pleasant to talk to. I wish I could say that for all of the meetings mentioned above.
All-in-all the BIO International Convention was a great meeting/conference for me and Chroma. Now I must say that I don’t think I convinced anyone to move their company to Vermont, but I might have the names of several people that could be interested in working here in the future. More than worth the time and money, and I truly hope that we can arrange to go again next year.
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