URBANA, IL (Chambana Today) — Members of the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology (NSCEB), U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth, and staff from Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski’s office will visit the Illinois Fermentation and Agriculture Biomanufacturing Tech Hub (iFAB) at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign on Friday, Sept. 12.
The visit is part of the NSCEB’s Biotech Across America Roadshow, a nationwide initiative highlighting biotechnology innovation centers committed to advancing cutting-edge research and economic growth. The iFAB Tech Hub is supported by a $51 million investment from the U.S. Economic Development Administration and represents a consortium of partners focused on precision fermentation and agricultural biomanufacturing.
“This hub positions Illinois as a leader in the future of biotech innovation,” said an iFAB spokesperson. “Bringing together research and industry experts will drive breakthroughs in sustainable agriculture and bioprocessing.”
During the visit, Senator Duckworth and NSCEB Commissioner Paul Arcangeli will participate in a roundtable discussion with iFAB leadership before touring the Integrated Bioprocessing Research Lab (IBRL) and the Pilot Processing Plant. Both facilities are part of the University of Illinois’ College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences.
The event runs from 1:45 to 4 p.m. and is invitation-only.