Life at Bio-Rad

Bio-Rad Makes Impact at AIDS Walk San Francisco 

July 30, 2024

"It's very important for Bio-Rad to participate in the AIDS Walk because it reflects our company mission to advance science and save lives, together."

-Jim Barry, EVP and President of Bio-Rad's Life Science Group

A team of more than 40 Bio-Rad employees, friends and family converged on Golden Gate Park on Sunday, July 21 for AIDS Walk San Francisco, a worthy cause tied directly to Bio-Rad's products and mission. In total, our team has raised more than $30,000 through a sponsorship and fundraising totaling nearly $7,000. 

To learn more about Bio-Rad's longstanding participation in AIDS Walk San Francisco, we spoke with our team captain Melissa Eng and Jim Barry, who heads Bio-Rad's Life Science Group. 

Melissa Eng, Senior Director, Global HR

How many years have you been participating at AIDS Walk, and how many years have you served as captain?

"I organized our first team in 2005, and I have participated every year since. This year was our 18th AIDS Walk, and I've served as captain for 13 years."

Why do you feel it's important for Bio-Rad to sponsor the event and assemble a team? 

"I believe it's important for Bio-Rad to provide sponsorship for the AIDS Walk and assemble a team to show that as an organization, we're committed to helping support and give back to the communities we are a part of. Additionally, we like to focus our community involvement events in areas where we have a connection to our business and products, and our product portfolio includes testing for HIV."

What is your favorite part about the event?  

"My favorite part of the event is seeing employees and their families participate, especially if they also bring their four-legged family members! After the event, I also like hearing what a great time employees have had, spending time with family and friends walking for a great cause."

From left to right: Jim Barry (EVP and President - LSG), Trey Marlowe (VP - LSG R&D), Darren Link (SVP - LSG R&D) and Melissa Eng (Sr. Director, Global HR). 

Jim Barry,  Executive Vice President and President of the Life Science Group

Why do you feel it's important for Bio-Rad to participate in AIDS Walk every year? 

"I think it is very important for Bio-Rad to participate in the AIDS Walk because it reflects our company mission to advance science and save lives, together. By participating, we are able to show our solidarity and commitment to the fight against HIV/AIDS, and help raise awareness and funds for research, education and prevention."

Why did you choose to walk?

"Personally, I saw the walk as an opportunity to join the community to walk and raise money to further the cause. I am so proud of the fact that Bio-Rad has been participating for 18 years. It was a great chance to do some service in the community, share the experience with my family and enjoy a very large group walk through a beautiful park. I hope to see more of the team with us next year!"

Want to join our team? Click here to view our open roles!