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Field Trip to Portal Innovations Showcases Integration and Application of Biotechnology in Real-World Settings

Posted on Jul 02, 2025

This spring, Fort Valley State University (FVSU) alumna India Brown, MSc, known professionally as The Soft Scientist, opened the doors of innovation to the next generation of STEM leaders during a deeply impactful visit to Portal Innovations, a cutting-edge biotech incubator in Atlanta where she currently serves as a senior laboratory operations associate.

With nearly a decade of experience in the biotechnology industry, Brown welcomed FVSU’s graduating STEM class to the world of real-time research and discovery. The students toured advanced lab spaces, met startup founders and engaged with current scientists working at the forefront of biotech innovation. Brown emphasized the importance of exposure and representation in spaces where Black scientists are often underrepresented. “These students are the future of science,” she shared. “To see them walking confidently through a space like this—it’s about planting seeds of possibility.”

Brown didn’t stop at inspiration. She came bearing gifts of impact, donating a generous assortment of laboratory supplies directly to FVSU’s biotechnology department. The donation was especially meaningful as it was presented to her former mentor and advisor, Sarwan Dhir, Ph.D., the very professor who helped shape her path in science. “Returning to the same building where my scientific career began was emotional,” she reflected. “To now be able to give back is humbling. I saw my old research posters on the wall—it reminded me that this journey is not just mine. It’s ours.”

To further equip the students with tools for professional success, Brown hosted a career development workshop titled “So You Want to Break Introduction to Biotech.” The session provided an unfiltered look into the realities of navigating the biotech industry from entry-level job strategies and resume building to salary negotiation and overcoming imposter syndrome. Brown offered hard-earned advice with transparency and encouragement. “If I could do it, you can too”.

India’s workshop lit a fire in the room. Students left not only with notes, but with vision—many expressing renewed confidence in their post-graduate paths. “This wasn’t just a workshop,” said one student. “I felt seen.”

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