Many biotech companies enter into partnerships with university labs to further their research and technology development efforts. But at Gen-Probe Incorporated (NASDAQ: GPRO), the firm also invests in young minds to foster a love of science and inspire the next generation of research leaders.

The Preuss School, an innovative public school for low income students located on the UCSD campus, has touched the hearts of Gen-Probe executives, motivating the company to support programs to enhance the school’s Science Department. Preuss is dedicated to providing a college prep education for 6th to 12th grade students who will become the first in their families to graduate from college.

State and school district funds cover only the most traditional expenses at the school, such as teacher and administrative salaries, books and instructional supplies. Contributions from community and corporate partners, such as Gen-Probe, support essential programs to help Preuss students succeed against all odds.

“Preuss kids are bright, motivated, very enthusiastic and quite an inspiration to us,” said Henry L. Nordhoff, chairman, president and chief executive officer of Gen-Probe, which produces diagnostic products to test for microorganisms based on patented DNA probe technology. “By funding student and faculty support in the sciences, Gen-Probe can help continue the momentum of successful test scores and graduation rates for these terrific students.”

Gen-Probe has pledged to give the Preuss School $108,000 over the next three years to partner in the school’s Academic Excellence program, primarily in support of the Science Department. The funds will benefit three priority programs of the school: Saturday Science Enrichment Academy, a “Meet the Biotech Professional” program at Gen-Probe and student mentoring. This gift contributes to the $1 billion fundraising goal of The Campaign for UCSD: Imagine What’s Next.

“Private support brings a Preuss student closer to college by ensuring faculty excellence, reducing bus transportation costs, providing academic enrichment and enhancing the library,” added Doris Alvarez, Preuss School principal. “Thanks to Gen-Probe and other generous donors to our Academic Excellence program, our students are achieving at remarkably high levels, and 100 percent of our 2005 graduates are attending college. Additionally, we received an Academic Performance Index (API) score of 861 from the California Department of Education, placing the Preuss School as the highest ranked high school in San Diego County.”

To support the Preuss School in achieving its goal of academic excellence, Gen-Probe funded programs will include:

Gen-Probe’s Nordhoff supports the Preuss School on a personal basis as well – he and his wife Robin are chairing the third annual Classic Cars for Classic Kids, a benefit for students scheduled Friday, October 28, 2005. The event, at the fabled Evans Garage, will feature a “Night on Broadway” theme. For information or reservations call 858-534-1404.