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Developing CGT Professionals Through Hands-on Expert-Guided GMP Laboratory Bootcamp

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Raymond Lam, BSc
Associate Director
Workforce Development
ISCT Head Office

From August 12 to 16, 2024, the ISCT Institute of Training & Development, in partnership with the NSF Engineering Research Center for Cell Manufacturing Technologies (CMaT), hosted the second hands-on Laboratory Bootcamp for Cell Therapy Biomanufacturing. The event took place at the Marcus Center for Therapeutic Cell Characterization and Manufacturing GMP facility at Georgia Institute of Technology, USA.

A Class of Six Learners, Guided by Experts

Under the guidance of Dr. Linda Kippner, Senior Research Scientist, and Dr. Nina Li, Research Scientist, both from the Marcus Center at Georgia Tech, six participants gained hands-on experience working in a GML lab and had the opportunity to exercise critical skills essential for success in CGT bioprocessing.

Key Topics Covered:

GLP/GMP PPE, Safety, and Compliance: Mastering procedures for working within an ISO-7 cleanroom.
Cell Culture: Advanced techniques for initiating, culturing and cryopreserving T-cells and Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Cell Product Scale-Up: Implementing cell product scale-up using a vertical wheel bioreactor.
Cell Counting: Utilizing various techniques and equipment for precise cell counts.
Endotoxin and Mycoplasma Testing: Executing cell product safety testing.
Metabolite Monitoring: Measuring glucose, lactate, and growth factors using high-throughput ELISA assays to monitor cell health and productivity.
Apoptosis Assay: Executing and interpreting apoptosis assays to assess cell viability.
Flow Cytometry: Gaining hands-on expertise in flow cytometry for detailed cell analysis and characterization.

Unparalleled Hands-on Experience

This bootcamp provided participants with an immersive experience in a GMP environment, offering an invaluable opportunity to build or enhance their GMP laboratory skills. The combination of expert guidance, cutting-edge equipment, and a focus on critical competencies made this course highly beneficial for professionals at any experience level.

Looking Ahead to 2025

For those interested in advancing their skills in CGT bioprocessing, the ISCT Institute of Training & Development is already preparing for the next iteration of this bootcamp in 2025. Don’t miss the chance to join the next group of learners who will benefit from this unique, hands-on experience.