Bowling Green, Ky. - Dr. Blaine Ferrell, dean of Western Kentucky University's Ogden College of Science and Engineering, was among the Kentucky delegation that attended the recent BIO 2005 Conference.

The event, held in Philadelphia, attracted more than 18,000 biotech executives, investors, journalists, policymakers and scientists from 56 countries and all 50 U.S. states.

At the Commonwealth of Kentucky's booth, Western and other universities showcased the state's niche capabilities and opportunities in biotech and life sciences. Gov. Ernie Fletcher also hosted a reception during the June 19-22 conference for biotechnology related industry leaders with a potential interest in what Kentucky has to offer.

"We were able to network with numerous companies in an effort to obtain more opportunities for Kentucky in the biotech industry," Dr. Ferrell said.

Several international companies are looking to expand their operations and are considering Kentucky, he said.

Dr. Ferrell also spoke with a North Carolina researcher and with a Pennsylvania educator about opportunities for students in Western's molecular biology program.

"Representatives from across the Commonwealth made a lot of good contacts," he said. "The state and Gov. Fletcher are pushing biotechnology as a driver for our economy."

Creating high-tech, high paying jobs in Kentucky will encourage more students to pursue careers in the sciences and engineering, help stem the brain drain and benefit the Commonwealth through improved quality of life, he said.

BIO 2006 is scheduled for April 9-12 in Chicago.

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For information, contact Blaine Ferrell at (270) 745-4448.