Advanced Therapies Integrates is dedicated to uniting industry leaders to drive and realize the full potential of Advanced Therapies and Medicinal Products (ATMPs). The event will focus on the technological progress and the people at the heart of key innovations within complex therapeutics, cell and gene therapies, regenerative medicines and tissue therapies – whether it’s those driving transformational change to overcome the challenges facing the industry, or supporting the emergence and growth of CGT companies in the UK.
Uniquely engaging the broadest possible network, including innovators, regulators, supply chain partners, equipment and technology providers, academia, industry associations, and a wide array of government funding bodies and ATMP-focused initiatives, Advanced Therapies Integrates aims to become the leading UK event for translating cutting-edge research and disruptive innovation into widespread adoption of Advanced Therapies, delivering improved patient outcomes and revolutionizing healthcare economics.
Advanced Therapies Integrates 2025 is part of the inaugural London Bio-Innovation Week alongside One Nucleus (Genesis), ELRIG SLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening) Meet Up and Life Science Nation (RESI London), facilitating multi-event networking and partnering opportunities for life science companies. Read more here.
IBM & Cell and Gene Therapy Catapult
Life Sciences Lead EMEA & Non Executive Director
Dr Nicole Mather has over 20 years’ experience in the health and life sciences industries and has worked across the commercial, public, and third sectors with a focus on cross-sector collaboration. Nicole currently leads IBM’s Health Data & AI and Life Sciences teams in the UK and Ireland, deploying technical expertise to deliver digital transformation across the sector.
Nicole is a Non-Executive Director of Cell and Gene Catapult, Non-Executive Director of the Wellcome Sanger Genome Research Ltd and sits on the Health Data Ministerial Industry Group. Nicole has also held roles as the founding Director of the Office for Life Sciences, and with NHS DigiTrials and the Health Research Authority.
Purespring Therapeutics
Chief Medical Officer
Fredrik Erlandsson is Chief Medical Officer at Purespring Therapeutics, a company specialising in gene therapy for kidney diseases. Prior to joining Purespring Fredrik was Head Global Clinical Development at Vifor, a leading nephrology and cardiology company. While leading Clinical Development at Vifor Fredrik’s team worked to secure regulatory approvals of difelikefalin, avacopan and sparsentan, as well as conducting 20+ clinical trials across approximately 10 different products. Prior to this Fredrik held roles as Global Clinical Lead at AstraZeneca, Senior Research Physician at Antisoma PLC, Medical Expert at Bayer, and physician in the Swedish healthcare system. He has worked on a broad range of clinical and pre-clinical development programmes in different roles, including zirconium cyclosilicate, sorafenib, rivaroxaban, roxadustat and dapagliflozin.
Fredrik holds a PhD and MD from Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, and is a licensed physician.
Bayer Co.Lab Berlin
Head
Ruth Shah is the Head of Bayer Co.Lab Berlin, which is part of a global network of state-of-the-art incubators supporting biopharma startups. With fully equipped labs, shared infrastructure, and access to experts and partners, it helps founders bring their brilliant ideas to life – while reducing operational and financial overhead. A dynamic community, the expertise of pharma, and no strings attached. In her role, Ruth is responsible for developing the Co.Lab Berlin strategy and community and overseeing operations to further cultivate the biotech innovation ecosystem in Berlin. In July 2025, Ruth was named Top 40 under 40 in Berlin for her leadership driving the economy and innovation in the capital region. Prior to her current position, Ruth was Director, Strategic Program Lead Gene Editing, where she drove the strategic pathfinding and operational build-up of gene editing activities as a cross-company endeavour between Bayer and AskBio, an AAV gene therapy company, which is a wholly owned and independent subsidiary of Bayer. Ruth has a PhD in Cell and Molecular Biology from the University of Edinburgh, and in May 2024 was awarded a Rising Star award from the Healthcare Businesswomen’s Association in acknowledgement of her DE&I leadership.
Rinri Therapeutics Ltd
Chief Technical Officer
Terri has over 20 years of life sciences R&D experience in both academic and industry roles with a focus on the development and translation of cell- and gene-based therapies. Before joining Rinri, Terri worked at the Cell and Gene Therapy Catapult for over seven years on the translation of a broad range of candidate therapies, including stem cell derived, alongside underpinning technologies and infrastructure. Her role at CGT Catapult also included advising academics and small companies on the development of advanced therapies.
Prior to this, Terri held senior roles in industry focussed on the development of processes for the expansion and differentiation of pluripotent stem cells for therapeutic use and drug discovery. Terri received her BSc. (Hons) in Biochemistry from the University of Dundee and holds a PhD in Cell and Molecular Biology from the University of Edinburgh.
Quell Therapeutics
Associate Director - Head of Process Development
Associate director and Head of Cell Process Development at Quell Therapeutics. Main interests in Cell and Gene Therapy; Process Development, Tech Transfer, GMP Manufacture and Immune Monitoring for Phase I/II Clinical Trials in Advanced Therapy Investigational Medicinal Products (ATIMPs).
Sanofi
UK & IE Franchise Medical Head for Transplant
Specialist Pharmaceutical Physician – CCT holder in Pharmaceutical Medicine and on the GMC
Specialist Register for Pharmaceutical Medicine
Surgeon with 16 years of extensive clinical and surgical experience in ENT and Head and Neck
Surgery, credited with book chapters, with publications and prizes at international levels
including the Foundation Award from American Academy of Otolaryngologists and Head and
Neck Surgeons for Rhinology.
13 years of experience in the Pharmaceutical industry, held medical leadership roles in Baxter,
Shire, UCB, and in Sanofi and currently working in Sanofi for the past 6 years
Extensive experience as a final signatory, code compliance, people management and
development and medical affairs. Active mentoring of people formally and informally within
Sanofi.
Successful delivery of several key projects with successful outcomes.
Fellow of the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Medicine. Faculty appointed Educational Supervisor,
sits on the ARCP panel and also an appraiser for the Faculty.
Fellow of Royal Statistical Society
Past MBBS Examiner at Brighton and Sussex Medical School
Currently Franchise Medical Head for Transplant for UK and Ireland in Sanofi – Aventis
Pharmaceuticals
Pioneer Group
Corporate Development Director
Pioneer Group’s purpose is to provide the environment in which ambitious life sciences and healthcare companies are more likely to be successful. We support entrepreneurs from early stage business concept onwards, helping them to test their commercial viability, raise money, launch and grow within our community.
I am part of a team of committed professionals dedicated to making this happen. In particular I am responsible for contributing significantly to the growth of Pioneer Group by leading on the recruitment of new companies to Pioneer Group’s sites and by helping the growth of existing client companies.
I started professional life at the British Consulate-General in Lyon and was appointed Commercial Consul heading up the life sciences sector for France.
I have worked in UK bio-incubators since 2005 and am chair of the UK Bioincubator Forum, representing 24 bioincubators across the UK.
IBM & Cell and Gene Therapy Catapult
Life Sciences Lead EMEA & Non Executive Director
Dr Nicole Mather has over 20 years’ experience in the health and life sciences industries and has worked across the commercial, public, and third sectors with a focus on cross-sector collaboration. Nicole currently leads IBM’s Health Data & AI and Life Sciences teams in the UK and Ireland, deploying technical expertise to deliver digital transformation across the sector.
Nicole is a Non-Executive Director of Cell and Gene Catapult, Non-Executive Director of the Wellcome Sanger Genome Research Ltd and sits on the Health Data Ministerial Industry Group. Nicole has also held roles as the founding Director of the Office for Life Sciences, and with NHS DigiTrials and the Health Research Authority.
Bayer Co.Lab Berlin
Head
Ruth Shah is the Head of Bayer Co.Lab Berlin, which is part of a global network of state-of-the-art incubators supporting biopharma startups. With fully equipped labs, shared infrastructure, and access to experts and partners, it helps founders bring their brilliant ideas to life – while reducing operational and financial overhead. A dynamic community, the expertise of pharma, and no strings attached. In her role, Ruth is responsible for developing the Co.Lab Berlin strategy and community and overseeing operations to further cultivate the biotech innovation ecosystem in Berlin. In July 2025, Ruth was named Top 40 under 40 in Berlin for her leadership driving the economy and innovation in the capital region. Prior to her current position, Ruth was Director, Strategic Program Lead Gene Editing, where she drove the strategic pathfinding and operational build-up of gene editing activities as a cross-company endeavour between Bayer and AskBio, an AAV gene therapy company, which is a wholly owned and independent subsidiary of Bayer. Ruth has a PhD in Cell and Molecular Biology from the University of Edinburgh, and in May 2024 was awarded a Rising Star award from the Healthcare Businesswomen’s Association in acknowledgement of her DE&I leadership.
No one delivers advanced therapies alone. From shared manufacturing facilities to cross-sector clinical partnerships, collaboration is critical—but often easier said than done. This session dives into the practicalities of building partnerships that work: how are organisations aligning incentives, managing IP, and navigating competing priorities to accelerate progress?
Mills & Reeve
Partner and Head of Life Sciences
James heads Mills & Reeve’s multi-disciplinary life sciences practice. He supports businesses across the full product lifecycle, from start-up to commercialisation.
A key focus of his work is supporting clients on strategic contracting covering technology / IP in and out- licensing transactions, research collaborations, clinical trial agreements and long term partnering agreements. James also advises on sector regulation including pharma and medical device regulation, market access, borderline products, advertising and clinical trials.
Rinri Therapeutics Ltd
Chief Technical Officer
Terri has over 20 years of life sciences R&D experience in both academic and industry roles with a focus on the development and translation of cell- and gene-based therapies. Before joining Rinri, Terri worked at the Cell and Gene Therapy Catapult for over seven years on the translation of a broad range of candidate therapies, including stem cell derived, alongside underpinning technologies and infrastructure. Her role at CGT Catapult also included advising academics and small companies on the development of advanced therapies.
Prior to this, Terri held senior roles in industry focussed on the development of processes for the expansion and differentiation of pluripotent stem cells for therapeutic use and drug discovery. Terri received her BSc. (Hons) in Biochemistry from the University of Dundee and holds a PhD in Cell and Molecular Biology from the University of Edinburgh.
Complement Therapeutics
Founding member & Director Portfolio Management
Harry has a biochemistry and biochemical engineering background from Imperial College and UCL. He has diverse experience working in cross-functional and founding teams to build early-stage biotech developing ATMP. He has previously led process development at LIfT Biosciences and later supported the company in fundraising, strategies & operations and orchestrating timely milestone deliveries. Harry completed his MBA in 2021.
eXmoor Pharma Concepts
Chief Executive Officer
Lucy joined eXmoor after 8 years at the Centre for Process Innovation (CPI) with her final position as Director of Biologics and COVID response.
She recently led the establishment of the UK’s RNA Centre of excellence in response to the COVID-19 pandemic as a member of the UK Vaccines Taskforce.
In 2013, as the Lead Biopharmaceutical Engineer at CPI, Lucy collaborated with eXmoor on the concept design of the organisation’s Darlington-based National Biologics Manufacturing
Centre.
Previously, she was an academic at Newcastle University in both the Business School and Chemical Engineering Departments where she worked with Professors Lyddiatt and Whitaker to understand the route to widespread adoption and process industrialisation of advanced therapies.
J A Kemp
Partner, European and UK Patent Attorney
Emily advises on patent matters across a range of biological fields, including cancer biology, vaccines, induced pluripotent stem cells, regenerative medicine and molecular biology. She has particular expertise in gene therapy, with substantial experience developing intellectual property strategies in this area. Emily has considerable experience in drafting, including multi-disciplinary inventions such as those involving both DNA constructs and lipid assemblies. She works closely with scientists to ensure inventions are accurately captured and clearly presented in patent applications.
AscellaHealth
Vice President of Market Access
Serving as Vice President of Market Access at AscellaHealth, Gillian brings 20 years of experience in the life sciences industry in both the European and US markets. She has held commercial and market access leadership positions at Baxter, Novartis Oncology and AstraZeneca, as well as trade relations and formulary strategy leadership roles at UnitedHealth Group. At AscellaHealth, Gillian provides strategic innovation and consultative market access support to pharmaceutical manufacturers and healthcare organisations. Gillian holds a BSc (Pharmacy) and MSc (Hospital Pharmacy) from Trinity College Dublin, as well as an MBA from University College Dublin Smurfit Business School. Gillian also has a Diploma in Health Economics from the National University of Ireland Whitaker School of Government and Management.
With public funding stretched and private capital more selective, where is the smart money going in 2026? This panel will explore how ATMPs are being evaluated in today’s climate. Are new business models emerging? How do we make the case for long-term health and economic returns—and what does a fundable ATMP look like now?
Thermo Fisher Scientific
Cell and Gene Therapy- Business Development Manager
As a Business Development Manager at Thermo Fisher Scientific, I combine my PhD in Cancer Metabolism with over 15 years of experience in multi-omics technologies, genomics, and genetic analysis to drive innovation in cell and gene therapy. I work closely with researchers, CDMOs, Pharma and Biotech companies to accelerate breakthroughs that have the potential to transform the lives of patients battling incurable diseases.
Passionate about advancing the field of cell and gene therapy, I collaborate across Thermo Fisher Scientific’s divisions to deliver cutting-edge solutions tailored to each stage of the therapeutic journey—from discovery and development to manufacturing and commercialisation. Beyond supporting our customers’ success, I actively contribute to the growth of our cell and gene therapy business unit by identifying new opportunities, forging strategic partnerships, and ensuring customer satisfaction.
Rinri Therapeutics
Chief Executive Officer
Simon has been Rinri’s CEO from its inception, working closely with Rinri’s founder and responsible for the strategic direction and operation of the company.
Having spent most of his career within blue-chip biotechnology and pharmaceutic companies, Simon has developed deep sector knowledge and experience in the biotech sector. He joined Rinri from IP Group, a specialist deep-tech venture capital fund, where he worked in early-stage investment and venture building, creating companies from world-class science. This exposed him to the innovative life science market across medical diagnostics, devices, synthetic biology, artificial intelligence, novel antimicrobials, and the advanced therapeutics landscape.
Simon believes that Rinri’s strong preclinical data and clinical development progress puts it at the forefront of hearing loss therapeutic development with enormous potential to make a real-world impact on patients and healthcare systems to realise a world where hearing loss can be restored, reconnecting people with the world around them.
He holds a 1st class BSc (Hons.) in Biology from the University of Leeds and a PhD. in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry from the University of York.
Purespring Therapeutics
Chief Medical Officer
Fredrik Erlandsson is Chief Medical Officer at Purespring Therapeutics, a company specialising in gene therapy for kidney diseases. Prior to joining Purespring Fredrik was Head Global Clinical Development at Vifor, a leading nephrology and cardiology company. While leading Clinical Development at Vifor Fredrik’s team worked to secure regulatory approvals of difelikefalin, avacopan and sparsentan, as well as conducting 20+ clinical trials across approximately 10 different products. Prior to this Fredrik held roles as Global Clinical Lead at AstraZeneca, Senior Research Physician at Antisoma PLC, Medical Expert at Bayer, and physician in the Swedish healthcare system. He has worked on a broad range of clinical and pre-clinical development programmes in different roles, including zirconium cyclosilicate, sorafenib, rivaroxaban, roxadustat and dapagliflozin.
Fredrik holds a PhD and MD from Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, and is a licensed physician.
Deep Science Ventures
Associate Director Therapeutics
Kerstin started her PhD at German Cancer Research Centre and then moved to a lab at Imperial College to work on novel treatment options within the field of tumour immunology. She has since spent almost ten years in leadership roles at impact-driven organisations advancing medicine and therapeutics, while also securing an executive MBA and a women in business award. Before joining Deep Science Ventures to design novel therapeutics companies using DSV’s outcome focussed company creation process, Kerstin was transforming ideas for cutting edge cell and gene therapies into investable propositions at UK’s Cell and Gene Therapy Catapult.
Houdini Bio
Co-Founder
Lee is leading the fundraising activities at Houdini Bio, a pre-seed Cambridge spin-out company unchaining expression of the next-generation of complex medicines. Lee has 12 years experience forming strategic collaborations and partnerships with CGT companies, and is leveraging this to build a world-leading engineering biology company.
Gill Jennings & Every LLP
Partner | Chemistry & Life Sciences
Ross qualified as a Chartered Patent Attorney in 2011 and became a partner in 2022. He works on a variety of inventions in the biotechnology, diagnostic and therapeutic fields including microbiome therapies and microbiology, cell and oligonucleotide therapies and antibody therapeutics.
Ross is known for his clear and accessible explanations of complex matters and has a strong track record of getting challenging biotech patents granted at the European Patent Office. He has an impressive track record with European oppositions and appeals, both defending and opposing. He works with a diverse range of clients, including UK and EU-based spin-outs and SMEs, universities, investors and multinationals. In addition, he manages European patent portfolios and oppositions on behalf of overseas clients and has significant experience performing freedom to operate and infringement analysis of European biologics and diagnostic patents, as well as due diligence activities for biotech investors.
Ross is also highly experienced in obtaining biotech supplementary protection certificates (SPCs) and foreign patent term extensions.
Prior to joining GJE, Ross worked in-house at a multinational pharmaceutical company.
Advanced therapies offer life-changing potential—but only if they reach the people who need them. As the sector moves toward broader adoption, how are we embedding patient perspectives early enough and deeply enough to design treatments that are truly fit for purpose? How do we ensure accurate and approrpiate information is available to support individual choice? And what will it take to turn individual success stories into sustainable, population-level impact?
NJ Redfern Ltd
Consultant
Following 5 years’ experience working in the gene therapy arena at bluebird bio, with a focus on reimbursement and commercialisation, Nicola set up NJ Redfern Ltd in 2022 to enable her to consult, coach and collaborate with other organisations.
With a consistent focus over recent decades on rare disease & oncology/ haematology, her primary attention has been on pricing and reimbursement, service delivery and shaping the external environment. She has been in the pharmaceutical industry since 1989, and has been employed by 10 different companies.
Since her company’s inception last year she has contracted with over 12 organisations on a diverse range of projects – including supporting 2 further gene therapy companies in their launch planning in the UK. Nicola was previously an active member of the ABPI – chairing the ATMP working group during 2021, a member of their Value and Access group and supporting various government affairs/communications initiatives. She has worked closely in the last 6 years with the Cell and Gene therapy catapult in the UK. More recently Nicola has been invited to sit on the advisory board for company ATMPS, has given talks at various ATMP congresses in 2022 and 23, been interviewed by Lumanity and Haemnet, and since January 2023 sits on the ethics subgroup of the International Society of Cell and Gene therapy and is a member of ATMP engage.
Nicola is committed to and motivated by patients having a choice and being able to access transformative treatment options quickly once science and innovation reaches a point to positively impact the lives of people living with significant health challenges. Having worked at Martin House hospice in Yorkshire, sat on the board of trustees at Naomi House and Jacks Place – a Hospice for children and young adults near Winchester, UK – and through working alongside multiple patient organisations over her career, she has a strong empathy and understanding of life limiting conditions and their impact on the individual, their families and society as a whole.
She has consistently demonstrated strong leadership capabilities – with a passion for creating and shaping new diverse teams – embedding a positive culture, helping individuals develop, then leading them through defining their strategic focus and driving the initiatives through to completion.
MEF2C Foundation
Chairperson
Advanced Therapies Wales (ATW) & the Midlands Wales Advanced Therapies Treatment Centre (MW-ATTC)
Head of Programmes
John Lewis is Head of Programmes for Advanced Therapies Wales (ATW) and the Midlands Wales Advanced Therapies Treatment Centre (MW-ATTC), based at the Welsh Blood Service. Since joining the ATW Programme in February 2023, John has led the delivery of high-impact initiatives across the advanced therapies landscape in Wales and the wider UK.
With a strong background in managing complex, multi-million-pound projects in the industrial sector—particularly in net-zero and decarbonisation—John brings a strategic, delivery-focused mindset to healthcare innovation. He has successfully driven collaborations between academia, industry, and the NHS, ensuring that innovation is translated into real-world impact.
In his current role, John oversees the delivery of the UK’s first national Delivery Plan for Advanced Therapies, a landmark strategy designed to create the optimal environment for the growth of the advanced therapies ecosystem in Wales. He also leads on Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement (PPIE) for the UK-wide ATTC network, ensuring that patient voice and system readiness are embedded in the development and adoption of advanced therapies.
John is committed to working in partnership with system leaders across the UK to accelerate the safe, equitable, and sustainable delivery of advanced therapies, aligning with national priorities and the evolving needs of the NHS
Sickle Cell Society
Communications Lead
Paula is a senior communications professional with over 20 years of experience in PR, marketing, and strategic communications; specialising in the healthcare and nonprofit sectors.
She leads communications at the Sickle Cell Society, where she focuses on raising awareness of sickle cell disorder and advocating for improved care, more treatment options and support for those affected by the condition. Her work includes digital communications, stakeholder engagement, and media relations, where she collaborates with streaming platforms and TV productions to enhance awareness and understanding of sickle cell.
Paula’s passion for healthcare advocacy has led to previous roles as Chair of the Board at Art in Healthcare, and working in communications and advocacy for stroke survivors and people diagnosed with chest and heart conditions.
Her experience and insights on the evolving field of gene therapy for sickle cell disorder is rooted in having closely worked with the sickle cell patient community throughout the NICE appraisal for Casgevy.
Paula is committed to supporting the development of new, safe, and effective therapies that have the potential to transform the treatment of chronic conditions like sickle cell disorder – ensuring patients receive the care they deserve and the opportunity to live their lives to the fullest potential.
AAVantgarde Bio
Chief Executive Officer
Dr. Misciattelli has more than 25 years of experience as an executive in the life sciences industry. She previously served as Chief Business Officer for immuno-oncology company, NovalGen, and prior to that served as SVP Strategy & Operations for gene therapy company, Freeline.
Dr. Misciattelli started her career in finance with Arthur Andersen in London followed by a period in corporate development at General Electric Healthcare and went on to gain broad sector experience in the life sciences internationally as a partner at PA Consulting. She holds a B.Sc. and a Ph.D. in Marine Microbiology from Bangor University, University of Wales, UK.
CAR-T Patient
In July 2022 Sandra was diagnosed with High grade diffuse large B cell lymphoma following an emergency admission to hospital with abdominal and back pain (a tumour had penetrated her spine). Sandra had emergency spinal fixation surgery to prevent paralysis and then immediately started R-CHOP chemotherapy followed by radiotherapy.
Sandra was briefly in remission but then relapsed in October 2023. Sandra was fast-tracked on to the CAR-T programme at Addenbrooke’s Hospital and following numerous tests, further chemotherapy and other treatments Sandra received the modified CAR- T cells in December 2023. Shortly after the T-cells infusion Sandra developed Cytokine Release Syndrome and a DVT and was cared for in the ICU for a week and discharged from hospital after 6 weeks.
Sandra’s haematology consultant said she has made a remarkable recovery. It was a gruelling treatment and recovery process but worthwhile as Sandra has been in remission for over 18 months. Sandra is now immunocompromised and affected by fatigue and mobility difficulties, however she does enjoy a very good quality of life. She is retired after a varied career in the public, voluntary and private sectors. Sandra worked with children and families for over 27 years. She was a manager of a Sure Start Children’s Centre, established family support services and volunteered as an Integrative counsellor.
Currently Sandra is a member of the first UK in-person CAR-T patients’ and carers’ group and two other peer support groups that began following courses provided by Maggie’s and Macmillan charities. Sandra has also contributed, in a small way, to the development of the Anthony Nolan charity’s CAR-T advice pages.
Developed by Oxford Properties and Pioneer Group, the 300,000 sq ft facility redefines the capital’s science and technology landscape. The building offers a unique combination of lab-enabled, fully fitted and incubator laboratory space and serviced offices within highly technical, tailored infrastructure – supporting the full lifecycle of life sciences companies as well as multinational pharmaceutical and biotechnology businesses, academic research institutions, government agencies, and venture capital firms. Places will be strictly limited, you can book your place through emailing: events@thepioneergroup.com.
The CGT start-up journey is not for the faint-hearted. From tech transfer and team-building to navigating funding gaps and regulatory hurdles, what separates those who scale from those who stall? This session brings together founders, investors and enablers to unpack the realities of building a successful ATMP start-up—and what support the ecosystem needs to turn innovation into impact
Stevenage Bioscience Catalyst
Entrepreneurship and Business Development Director
As Director of Entrepreneurship and Business Development at Stevenage Bioscience Catalyst, Marco Delise provides business support to the biotech startups of the SBC cluster. He organises community-focused events, workshops and trainings, provide founders connections with industry experts and investors. He’s also responsible for directing the Catalyser accelerator programme to help startups refine their commercialisation strategy.
Previously, Marco was part of the founding team at Better Dairy, a London-based biotech startup where he led the R&D and business development streams from pre-seed to post-Series A funding stages. Marco holds a PhD in Synthetic Biology and, at SBC, he found his passion to support young biotech businesses and the broader ecosystem.
Complement Therapeutics
Vice President Operations
Mustafa has significant industry experience in the discovery and development of cell and gene therapies gained within academia and industry at GSK, Cell & Gene Therapy Catapult and is currently VP Operations at Complement Therapeutics. He has previously led process and analytical development for AAV, CAR-T and PSC derived cell therapy products to support first in human and late-stage clinical studies. Mustafa has previously served as a board member for the British Society for Gene and Cell Therapy and continues to work on pan-industry/academia working groups to overcome common barriers to translation and commercialisation of Advanced Therapies.
Laverock Therapeutics
Chief Executive Officer
Prof David Venables has three decades of experience as a serial biotech entrepreneur having taken companies from creation through to acquisition or IPO, and taken products from development through to commercial launch. Currently Founding CEO of Laverock Therapeutics, Board member of Axol Bioscience and NovelGen, and mentor to a number of start-ups.
David has held CEO or Senior Executive roles in AskBio, Synpromics, Nightstar, Anatara Lifesciences, Ark Therapeutics, Valneva; is Honorary Professor at Edinburgh University, and holds a PhD in Bioprocess Engineering from University of Surrey.
ImmuONE
CEO
CEO, Co-founder
Connect with me over LinkedIn!
Specialities: toxicology, preclinical safety, biotechnology and innovation
Miltenyi Biotec
Clinical Account Manager
As a Clinical Account Manager at Miltenyi Biotec, I manage a diverse portfolio of both industry and academic accounts across the UK, with a strong focus on supporting CGT process development, ATMPs and commercialisation. My role involves close collaboration with stakeholders driving innovative therapies from bench to bedside. One of my passions is to witness successful start-ups in CGT, go from benchtop work all the way through to commercialisation. CGT is becoming a competitive market with a fast rate of growth, as such, the partnerships created, and path taken will ultimately determine start-up success. I hold a PhD in oncology and novel therapies, bringing a strong scientific foundation to my work in advancing translational research all the way to clinical development.
Developed by Oxford Properties and Pioneer Group, the 300,000 sq ft facility redefines the capital’s science and technology landscape. The building offers a unique combination of lab-enabled, fully fitted and incubator laboratory space and serviced offices within highly technical, tailored infrastructure – supporting the full lifecycle of life sciences companies as well as multinational pharmaceutical and biotechnology businesses, academic research institutions, government agencies, and venture capital firms. Places will be strictly limited, you can book your place through emailing: events@thepioneergroup.com.
Digital technologies like automation, robotics and AI are no longer just on the horizon—they’re already being embedded into ATMP manufacturing. But what’s working, what’s not, and where are the real gains being made? This session explores how smart tools are being leveraged to overcome persistent challenges in product quality, scalability and consistency.
TTP
Head of Advanced Therapies
At TTP, we collaborate with advanced therapy innovators to ensure their manufacturing processes are structurally and regulatorily sound from the earliest stages:
In doing so, we help leaders frame manufacturing as a strategic enabler, reducing risk, building credibility, and ensuring therapies reach patients faster.
We bring together deep market expertise science engineering and regulatory insight in one collaborative organisation. Our interdisciplinary teams work flexibly to meet complex challenges at every stage so you avoid late stage reinvention and build in robustness from day one.
Our strategy:
At TTP, we partner with advanced therapy innovators to turn manufacturing into a driver of success, not a late stage obstacle. From the very start, our teams design scalable bioprocess technologies, bespoke automation solutions, and GMP ready processes that grow with your therapy.
By embedding regulatory confidence and scalability from the earliest stages, we help biotech leaders reduce risk, accelerate approval timelines, and ensure life changing therapies reach patients faster.
Advent Bioservices
Head of Process Development and R&D
Alessandra brings over 20 years of experience in R&D, PD, CMC and regulatory affairs gained in the private and academic sectors in cell and gene therapy, immune-oncology and immunology. Alessandra holds a PhD in Molecular Immunology obtained at the National institute for Medical Research and sponsored by UCL (UK), and studied Biological Sciences at the University of Padova (Italy).
Lentitek
Founder
From the start of my career I have always focused on proteins – their structure, making them for screening assays and how they are altered within the cells. Having used lentivirus in the past, it was this protein perspective that led me to question why lentivirual vectors were produced in the way that they are.
Years later, and having moved into more commercial roles within biomanufacturing, I was having many discussions with developers who were really struggling with viral vector production. It occured to me that I may have a solution to some of these problems – from which Lentitek was born.
Having founded Lentiek with my former colleague Leif Anderson in 2019, we have gone on to raise over a £1 million in equity and grant investment into Lentitek. We have done so much since then and we are looking forward to developing commercial solutions for the issues facing lentivirus manufacturing.
Quell Therapeutics
Associate Director - Head of Process Development
Associate director and Head of Cell Process Development at Quell Therapeutics. Main interests in Cell and Gene Therapy; Process Development, Tech Transfer, GMP Manufacture and Immune Monitoring for Phase I/II Clinical Trials in Advanced Therapy Investigational Medicinal Products (ATIMPs).
From cleanroom to clinic, the growth of advanced therapies is dependent on a highly-skilled workforce. As demand rises for specialised roles in R&D, GMP, and clinical delivery, how can the UK develop and retain the skills needed at scale? This session explores the realities of recruitment, training and talent development—and what it will take to futureproof the sector’s human infrastructure.
RS Therapeutics
Chairman
Martino is Chairman of RS Therapeutics and an Independent Consultant, based in
Manchester. From June 2011- July 2017, Martino was the first CEO of the Stevenage
Bioscience Catalyst an ambitious concept to develop an Incubator and Accelerator,
followed by a world class Science Park for the Life Sciences sector Having been
CEO at Stevenage Bioscience Catalyst, Martino was recently Entrepreneur in
Residence at UMIP, Manchester (2017-2020) and was working part-time with the
NHS in Manchester, also as an Entrepreneur in Residence.
Martino has a PhD in Biochemistry from Cardiff University and spent 4 years at
Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX in Cardiovascular research. Martino joined
Amersham International in 1991 and subsequently went on to manage the R&D
Technology Transfer Group, based in Cardiff and developing high throughput
screening technologies for the Pharmaceutical sector.
Following the merger of Amersham with Pharmacia Biotech, Martino became the
Science Director for the Cardiff site, Martino then became a Business Manager for
Manchester Biotech Ltd. and subsequently Manchester Innovation Ltd. in June 1999.
When the Universities of Manchester and UMIST merged, he became Managing
Director of UMIC and MICL and was also a Board member of UKBI (UK Business
Incubation).
Martino has also been a Board member of the Hertfordshire LEP. Most recently,
Martino was appointed to the Board of BIONOW, the Northern member Organization
for Life Sciences, as a non- Executive Director (2018-2023). He is currently
Chairman of Discovery Park Ltd., Vitarka Therapeutics Ltd and Evidential Ltd. He is
also a Director of Discovery Park Ventures.
LifeArc
Programme Director Translational Fellowships Skills Lead, Innovation hubs for Gene Therapies Senior Business Manager, LifeArc
Anji is a TT professional with more than 19 years’ experience of working with early-stage translational research. Anji has extensive experience of IP and contract management, licensing, business development of healthcare technologies, and development of knowledge transfer policies. Her current role at LifeArc involves working with academic and charitable establishments to identify, cultivate, fund, and commercialise early-stage healthcare technologies, focusing on rare diseases and the advanced therapies.
A proponent for professional advancement in STEM careers, Anji is active in many initiatives missioned to address the current UK skills gap and training shortage. These include leadership of the LifeArc-AUTM TT Training Fellowship and LifeArc TTO Fellowship programmes, designed to train, and assist scientists to become TT professionals; directing LifeArc’s translational placement and training programmes, and working with external partners to improve STEM learning and development in education. As the Skills Lead for recently launched Innovation Hubs for Gene Therapy, Anji works with the Innovation Hubs to address the identified skills needs in the advanced therapy sector.
An advocate of equality diversity and Inclusion, Anji cofounded Global Equality, Diversity and Equality in Technology Transfer (GEDITT), an initiative missioned to raise awareness and promote EDI in the TT sector.
Anji holds an M.Sc. in Human Molecular Genetics and Ph.D in Cancer Genetics from Imperial College, and M.Sc. and Certificate in IP Law from QMUL. She is a certified project manager, Registered Technology Transfer Professional and Certified Licensing Professional.
Anji is a board member of AUTM, The Alliance of Technology Transfer Practitioners (ATTP), ASTP, Certified Licensing Professional (CLP) and, a member of the BioIndustry Association (BIA) Cell & Gene Therapy Advisory Committee, and the AUTM Equity, Diversity & Inclusivity Committee.
FUJIFILM Diosynth Biotechnologies
Senior Director, Viral Gene Therapy
Michael is responsible for overseeing FUJIFILM Diosynth Biotechnologies’ (FDB) Viral Gene Therapy operations in the UK. Prior to this he spent 4 years at FDB’s College Station location in Texas USA where he was Head of Process Development, and was responsible for leading a rapidly expanding process development team. He has previously served in a number of technical roles at FDB’s sites in Texas and the UK and before joining FDB, worked for MSD Biologics and Avecia Biotechnology. Michael gained a BSc in Medical Microbiology and Immunology and an MPhil in Developmental Biology from Newcastle University.
OXB
Global HR Projects Manager
As an accomplished Recruitment and Talent expert, with strong experience in the life sciences sector across Europe, my expertise spans a range of critical areas, including enhancing hiring processes, developing advanced retention strategies, and delivering pivotal market insights within cell and gene therapies.
Beyond these core areas, I am adept at establishing comprehensive learning and development frameworks and elevating employer branding, ensuring organisations are not only appealing to elite talent but also primed for enduring success. In addition, my role encompasses overseeing HR Management in the UK, where I apply a strategic approach to align human resources with broader business objectives.
My overarching mission is to make a significant impact on global health by ensuring the recruitment and development of top-tier talent, fostering healthcare innovations and solutions.
Sanofi
UK & IE Franchise Medical Head for Transplant
Specialist Pharmaceutical Physician – CCT holder in Pharmaceutical Medicine and on the GMC
Specialist Register for Pharmaceutical Medicine
Surgeon with 16 years of extensive clinical and surgical experience in ENT and Head and Neck
Surgery, credited with book chapters, with publications and prizes at international levels
including the Foundation Award from American Academy of Otolaryngologists and Head and
Neck Surgeons for Rhinology.
13 years of experience in the Pharmaceutical industry, held medical leadership roles in Baxter,
Shire, UCB, and in Sanofi and currently working in Sanofi for the past 6 years
Extensive experience as a final signatory, code compliance, people management and
development and medical affairs. Active mentoring of people formally and informally within
Sanofi.
Successful delivery of several key projects with successful outcomes.
Fellow of the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Medicine. Faculty appointed Educational Supervisor,
sits on the ARCP panel and also an appraiser for the Faculty.
Fellow of Royal Statistical Society
Past MBBS Examiner at Brighton and Sussex Medical School
Currently Franchise Medical Head for Transplant for UK and Ireland in Sanofi – Aventis
Pharmaceuticals
Fresenius Kabi
Director Commercialization Therapeutic Apheresis and Cell Therapy
Experienced International Business Development/Commercial/Product/ Marketing leader, highly technical with postdoctoral level research experience.
Passionate about bringing new and innovative technologies to the cell and gene therapy community to help streamline translation and manufacturing.
Broad knowledge of Cell and Gene therapy applications, significant expertise in translation and GMP process development, with a considerable network of contacts within the Cell Therapy community.
Victoria House, located in the heart of Bloomsbury, London, is a Grade II listed venue with state-of-the-art laboratories available for rent, designed to support scientific research and innovation. The laboratories are fully equipped with advanced technology and facilities, making them ideal for startups, established companies, and research institutions. In addition to labs, Victoria House also features flexible event spaces, advanced AV technology, and professional on-site support.
As part of the Pioneer Group, Victoria House is connected to Europe’s largest collective of scientists, technologists, and entrepreneurs. This dynamic environment supports collaboration with universities, high-growth enterprises, large corporates, healthcare providers, and local government. Pioneer Group offers a range of programmes, including Pre-Accelerator Workshops, Accelerator Programmes, and Launch support, to help businesses grow and innovate. Companies also benefit from expert networks, investment opportunities, and tailored events that foster a unique culture.
