CLEAN AND SAFER CELLS

Dr. Stephen Minger is a pioneering researcher in human stem cell biology, renowned for his work in cell and gene therapy, human embryonic stem biology and regenerative medicine.

He holds a PhD in Pathology (Neurosciences) from Albert Einstein College of Medicine, followed by post-doctoral research at UCSD, specializing in central nervous system gene therapy and neural stem cell biology. Transitioning to King’s College London, he ascended to Senior Lecturer in Stem Cell Biology and directed the Stem Cell Biology Laboratory. Beyond academia, Stephen was the Global Director for R&D for Cell Technologies at GE Healthcare and later held the position of Chief Scientist at GE Healthcare Life Sciences.

Currently, he is the Founder and Director of SLM Blue Skies Innovations Ltd, providing expert analysis in emerging healthcare technologies, including gene and cell-based therapies, machine-brain interfaces, AI, and pluripotent stem cell technologies.

Prof. Dr. Frank Barry is a pioneering figure in regenerative medicine. His innovative cellular therapies for tissue repair, joint injury, and arthritis have made a significant impact. As a board member and advisor, he influences research and development in Europe and North America. He is known for his research on mesenchymal stromal cells, cell expansion methods, and clinical protocols. His work in cell technology and arthritic disease therapeutics is widely recognized and highly cited, earning him the prestigious Marshall Urist Award for tissue regeneration excellence from the Orthopaedic Research Society.

Dr. Shannon Eaker is a seasoned expert in the domains of T-cell, HSC (Hematopoietic Stem Cell), and ES/iPSC (Embryonic Stem/Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell) biology. With over 11 years of experience at Cytiva Cell and Gene Therapy, he has emerged as a distinguished leader in the field. As a member of ISCT’s Process and Product Development committee, Shannon actively contributes to advancing the industry. He combines academic rigor with industry leadership and has authored numerous impactful papers in cell biology and manufacturing.

Paul Kemp is a distinguished figure in the field of Regenerative Medicine with over 25 years of extensive commercialization experience in both the US and UK markets. He is globally recognized as a pioneer in the field and has made significant contributions to cellular therapies. Paul is notably the lead inventor of the first multi-cell therapy, marking a groundbreaking achievement in the industry.

Prof. Majlinda Lako is a renowned stem cell researcher whose work encompasses critical areas in stem cell biology and regenerative medicine. Her expertise includes self-renewal in pluripotent stem cells, hematopoietic differentiation and clinical applications for corneal and retinal blindness. She boasts an extensive publication record and has established multiple iPSC lines, used worldwide for various applications. Majlinda has made substantial strides in corneal stem cell therapy, successfully treating patients, and actively contributes to mentoring, lecturing, and shaping stem cell infrastructure and governmental policies.

Prof. Dr. Mark Lowdell is a distinguished figure with a rich academic background. His expertise encompasses cutting-edge research and development in cell and tissue therapies. With over 35 years of experience, he has made significant contributions to adoptive immunotherapy, GMP facility establishment and advisory roles for key ATMP (Advanced Therapy Medicinal Product) development companies as CSO (Chief Scientific Officer) or member of the SAB or MAB. Mark continues to drive innovation and excellence in the world of immunotherapy and regenerative medicine.

Antonio Sfiligoj is a visionary leader in automated cell therapy products (ATMPs) manufacturing. He has been leading VivaBioCell with innovative research to scale production and lower ATMP costs, ultimately making new therapies more accessible to patients. His contributions have been transformative in advancing ATMP manufacturing, and his collaborations have been instrumental in driving progress within the industry.

Dr. Joseph P. Taormino, a European Patent Attorney since 1998, specializes in Biotechnology litigation at Hoffmann Eitle. As a co-leader of the Biotechnology practice group from 2002-2022, his practice centred on EPO opposition/appeal proceedings, due diligence in acquisitions and cross-border litigation strategy. With a wealth of experience, he continues to advise medium to large biotech and pharmaceutical firms, aligning legal strategies with their business needs. Notably, Joe has contributed to a number of significant EPO Board of Appeal decisions, published patent law and biotech articles and served as an advisor/rapporteur to the European Commission Expert Group in 2016.