Biotechnology education for non-scientists in the USA

The focus and funding for science education in the USA is to channel bright students into PhD programs and science research careers. While this goal is necessary to our country's continued technical innovation, the contributions of non-scientist members of our society to the cycle of economic development through technical innovation are usually overlooked. Public support of scientific research, both financial and philosophical, and the commercialization of useful technologies by business people are critical components of the cycle which depend on increasing science education for non-scientists. For the industry's continued success, it must adopt business strategies that maintain public confidence and defuse countermarketing efforts by several small but influential public opposition groups.