Maryland Science Center Enhances SciLab, Laboratory Experience for Visitors

BALTIMORE, May 8, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- The Maryland Science Center's newly expanded and re-imagined space, SciLab, is now open, providing a unique, popular and hands-on laboratory science simulation for visitors. The 2,000-square-foot expansion was partially funded by a $100,000 contribution from BD Diagnostics, a segment of BD (Becton, Dickinson and Company) (NYSE: BDX), a leading global medical technology company. SciLab's expansion includes a classroom space, new investigation stations and additional laboratory gear that enhance educational opportunities for visitors and local school groups.

Visitors to SciLab will don lab coats, wear safety glasses and experiment with dozens of lab tools at large investigation stations to explore scientific wonders including chemical composition analysis, DNA extraction, optical illusions and the inner workings of the human body. "SciLab Scientists" will use test tubes, pipettes, beakers and microscopes while measuring, mixing, stirring and observing their way to testing a hypothesis.

"The new SciLab at the Maryland Science Center is a great representation of the fun, interactive and accessible science environment we are creating as part of our ever-evolving focus on hands-on, experiential activities," said Maryland Science Center President and CEO Van Reiner. "Our visitors will use real laboratory tools to try and prove their hypotheses that they proposed."

"BD is proud of its longstanding relationship with the Maryland Science Center and is excited to sponsor the newly expanded and renovated SciLab exhibit," said Glenn McKim, Vice President and Segment CFO for BD Diagnostics and BD BioSciences. "We're particularly enthusiastic to provide a hands-on learning experience for children and adults alike to foster an interest and appreciation for science and technology. We believe these disciplines are important to the future economic growth and well-being of the area."

SciLab is located on the Level 2 of the Maryland Science Center and is open to visitors on a first-come, first-served basis. Activities in SciLab last approximately 15 minutes each and are free with paid admission to the Maryland Science Center. For a schedule of specific SciLab activities and Maryland Science Center information, visit www.marylandsciencecenter.org or call the 24-Hour Information Line at 410-685-5225.

About the Maryland Science Center
Named one of Parents Magazine's Top 10 Science Centers in America, the Maryland Science Center in Baltimore makes science understandable and fun for more than 500,000 visitors a year. The Maryland Science Center inspires, fascinates, motivates and engages children and adults with dozens of interactive exhibits, traveling exhibitions, original presentations in the world-famous Davis Planetarium, larger-than-life movies in the five-story St. John Properties IMAX Theater, and hundreds of hands-on programs delivered throughout the state each year.  For more information, visit www.marylandsciencecenter.org.

About BD
BD is a leading medical technology company that partners with customers and stakeholders to address many of the world's most pressing and evolving health needs. Our innovative solutions are focused on improving drug delivery, enhancing the diagnosis of infectious diseases and cancers, supporting the management of diabetes and advancing cellular research. We are nearly 30,000 associates in 50 countries who strive to fulfill our purpose of "Helping all people live healthy lives" by advancing the quality, accessibility, safety and affordability of healthcare around the world. For more information, please visit www.bd.com.

SOURCE Maryland Science Center