Alexion Opens STEM Learning Lab to Inspire Future Innovators

Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease, is committed to helping inspire future leaders through science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education. That commitment led to the transformation of a space in Alexion’s New Haven, Connecticut, site into a dedicated hub for hands-on learning: Alexion’s STEM Learning Lab.

Located at 100 College Street in the heart of New Haven, the Lab is a dynamic, community-focused space designed to spark curiosity and support learning for people of all ages. The flexible environment can serve as a scientific lab, classroom, seminar venue or exhibition area—depending on what community partners need to advance STEM education. To encourage participation, the Lab is available at no cost for STEM-related programs.

The Lab was a passion project for Jennifer Bradley, Executive Director, Scientific Operations, who leads Alexion’s New Haven laboratory facilities and is deeply connected to the local community.

We’re passionate about introducing STEM-related topics to the children of New Haven at an earlier age.”
- Jennifer Bradley, Executive Director, Scientific Operations

Research shows that middle, junior high, school is an important time to encourage student interest in STEM and help young people understand potential STEM career paths. Even before opening the Lab, Alexion has invested in youth engagement programs designed to nurture future talent, support local teachers and help strengthen tomorrow’s research and development pipeline.

Alexion has played a key role in launching New Haven’s Science Week. Since its inception, more than 200 middle school students have visited Alexion’s headquarters each year for real-world science experiences—from strawberry DNA extraction to demonstrations showing how germs spread. Students choose activities that align with their classroom learning, helping them connect school lessons to bioscience in action and reinforcing the relevance of STEM in everyday life.

STEM learning also extends beyond school-aged students. Alexion partners with organizations that help adults build skills for potential careers in biotech and biopharma.

What can happen in the Alexion STEM Learning Lab?

• School groups can explore basic science concepts and discover what happens inside a lab
• Adult learners can participate in job training programs designed to support entry into the biotech field
• Community partners can host educational seminars, science events and hands-on learning experiences

New Haven is home to Alexion’s scientific team and the birthplace of the company. Through the Lab, Alexion can connect local learners with experts from across the company, creating opportunities for mentorship, exposure and real-world insight into careers in science, engineering, information technology and business.

Community leaders have welcomed the STEM Learning Lab as a creative use of a space that had been unoccupied for years—now transformed into a resource designed to help shape the next generation of innovators.

Local Connecticut organizations interested in using the Alexion STEM Learning Lab for STEM-related programming can submit an interest form.