An ECI Conference Series
February 1-5, 2026
Hilton Head, SC
USA
About This Conference
The ECI Advancing Manufacture of Cell and Gene Therapies conference is a biennial meeting that brings together leading figures from academia, industry, and government to showcase and debate the latest breakthroughs in advancing engineering and manufacturing of next-generation therapies. In February 2026, ECI will deliver yet another unique meeting with a specific focus on the latest advancements, trends, and disruptions from the past two years impacting both cell and gene therapies.
Our attendees and speakers include scientists and engineers in various sectors from all over the world working to improve manufacturing of advanced therapeutics. The sessions will cover advances, emerging concepts, and technologies related to gene editing, digitalization and automation (including artificial intelligence), manufacturing strategies, and much more.
We welcome, celebrate, and take pride in attracting a diverse audience that will lead to an enlightening and productive meeting. The conference delivers an appreciation of the field’s achievement, an acknowledgement of the hurdles, and a sense of direction for the future. Check back often as details on session titles, keynote speakers, and the overall program are updated regularly. We hope to see you there!
John Moscariello, Neuvogen
Corrine Hoesli, McGill University
Bruno Marques, Century Therapeutics
Conference Organization
Conference Chairs
John Moscariello, Neuvogen
Corrine Hoesli, McGill University
Bruno Marques, Century Therapeutics
Organizing Committee
Taby Ahsan, Vice President, City of Hope
Mats Akesson, Director, Novo Nordisk
Calvin Chan, Director, BMS
Liz Csaszar, Senior Director, Notch
Suzy Farid, Professor, UCL
Peter Fuhrken, Vice President, FCDI
Patricia Gomes-Alves, Lab Head, IBET
Jérôme Guicheux, Research Director, INSERM
Steve Howe, Vice President, Resolution
David Hsiung, Director, Prime Medicine
Shin Kawamata, CEO, Cyto Facto
Fernanda Masri, Chief Commercial & Innovation Officer, Cytomos
Fabien Moncaubeig, CTO, TreeFrog Therapeutics
Lavanya Peddada, Senior Director, Vittoria
Dhruv Sareen, Executive Director, Cedars-Sinai
Aaron Simmons, PD Scientist, Procella
Vanessa Strings-Ufombah, Executive Director, Assay Development, Adverum
Chris Wiwi, Head, Tech Ops, Dispatch
Session Descriptions
Advancements in Manufacturing Gene Delivery Vehicles: Novel Manufacturing Technologies for Process Intensification and Control
Session Chairs: Jessica Tate (CCRM), Kerry Dooriss (City of Hope), Sven Markert (Roche)
For the past two decades, viral vectors (VVs) have been the most commonly used method for in vivo delivery of gene therapies. However, challenges related to yield, purity, and consistency during the biomanufacturing of these complex therapies persist. The commercialization of several VV-based therapies over the last 10 years has emphasized the need for improved design, characterization, and manufacturability of these vectors to enhance their efficacy, safety, and affordability. This is essential to ensure that VVs remain a viable option for gene delivery. This session will delve into strategies and cutting-edge technologies designed to advance the manufacturing of VV-based medicines beyond current limitations and enable a better link process to product quality for global patient access.
We invite submissions for presentations addressing the following key areas
- Technologies and strategies to reduce cost of manufacturing for VV based gene therapies in upstream and downstream processing by increasing productivity, yield and purity focusing on stable producer cell lines, improved transient transfection and streamlined purification.
- Product quality control via process design: mechanistic case studies demonstrating the modulation of critical quality attributes (CQAs) through targeted manipulation of process parameters
- Looking beyond the horizon: Next generation manufacturing of viral vector-based gene therapies by technology driven transformation
Advances in Manufacturing of Cell Therapies
Session Chairs: Calvin Chan, Mats Akesson, Liz Csaszar
Cell therapies have proven their ability to be effective, and in some cases curative, in both oncology and non-oncology applications. The landscape of cell therapy manufacturing is evolving, with innovative strategies, tools, and methodologies being adopted for both autologous and allogeneic therapies. Despite these advancements, manufacturing remains a significant challenge for commercial cell therapy products and continues to attract the interest of early-stage developers and enabling technology providers.
As novel therapies emerge and the demand for scalable solutions increases, stakeholders must navigate unique challenges related to scale, materials, parallelization, automation, and quality control. This session will delve into the intricacies of process development and highlight cutting-edge manufacturing approaches across a variety of cell therapy products, including CAR-T and TCR-based therapies, engineered NK cells, and stem cell-based therapies.
We will cover both autologous and allogeneic manufacturing, addressing key areas such as:
- Innovations in upstream and downstream unit operations
- Development of drug products, drug substances, and cell intermediates
- New enabling technologies and platforms
- Strategies for managing costs of goods sold (COGs) and scalability
- Advances in novel reagent designs
- Control and optimization strategies
Join us for an insightful exploration of how the latest manufacturing innovations are shaping the future of cell therapies.
Enabling Equitable Patient Access to Cell & Gene Therapies through Intelligent Automation and Data-Driven Manufacturing Process Control
Session Chairs: Neil Blackburn, John Tomtishen, Daria Marsh
Cell and gene therapies (CGT) offer transformative potential for patients with previously untreatable conditions. However, despite their clinical promise, equitable patient access remains a major challenge partially due to complex and costly manufacturing processes. This session will examine how innovations in manufacturing process control, automation, and AI/ML can address these access barriers by enhancing efficiency, consistency, manufacturing capacity and scalability.
As the CGT field matures, stakeholders must confront pressing issues—ranging from high costs of goods, supply chain fragility, and infrastructure disparities to regulatory complexity. We will explore how advanced technologies are being leveraged to optimize manufacturing workflows, scale processes, and reduce variability and batch failure, which will ultimately enable enhanced manufacturing capacity, leading to broader and more affordable patient access.
This session will feature a deep dive into the role of intelligent automation and data-driven process control, with particular emphasis on:
- Real-time monitoring, digital twins, and predictive analytics for manufacturing optimization
- AI/ML-powered systems that reduce batch failures and improve quality assurance
- Closed-system automation and robotics to minimize manual intervention and human error
- Decentralized, modular manufacturing models to reach underserved populations
- Collaborative strategies with regulators and industry partners to scale innovation responsibly
- Future-forward technologies shaping scalable, sustainable access models
Join us for a forward-looking discussion on how process automation, machine learning, and smart manufacturing can democratize access to CGT—transforming the patient care landscape with greater equity, reach, and impact
The Product is the Product: considerations and tools for analytical strategy development
Session Chairs: Fernanda Masri and Chris Wiwi
For years the cell and gene therapy (C>) field has parroted the phrase “The Product is the Process.” Interpreted incorrectly, this mantra might encourage an insufficient investment in analytics during product development. As our industry has matured, celebrating several commercial products, so too have the analytical strategies. This session will consider the latest tools and approaches that are being used in C> process and product development. During this session we will hear academic and industry perspectives on (1) the critical role of methods in developing a comprehensive product control strategy, (2) advancements in the testing of viral vectors, (3) methods for gene editing, including off-target analyses, (4) improvements in rapid method development and implementation, (5) the automation of analytical methods; (6) new tools being used by product developers and technology providers.
Process & Analytical Considerations for In Vivo Gene Editing & Delivery
Session Chairs: David Hsiung, Lavanya Peddada
Gene editing technologies have revolutionized therapeutic applications, with approaches divided into ex vivo and in vivo methodologies. While ex vivo gene editing has been widely used to modify T cells for cancer immunotherapy (both autologous and allogeneic) and hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) for genetic disorders, in vivo approaches are expanding and carry the promise to expand patient access, improve treatment efficacy, and reduce manufacturing cost & complexity. However, achieving safe and efficient in vivo gene editing requires overcoming significant challenges in delivery, manufacturing, and analytical assessment.
This session will focus on the manufacturing and analytical considerations for in vivo gene editing therapies, and aim to address key challenges and advancements in the field. Topics will include delivery technologies for gene editing tools such as lipid nanoparticles, process development and scalability, and analytical approaches to evaluate efficacy, potency, and reducing off-target effects. The session will highlight the latest innovations in in vivo gene therapy and explore the CMC strategies that can be employed to bring these products to the clinic.
Join us for an in-depth discussion on the evolving landscape of in vivo gene editing, with insights into cutting-edge technologies and best practices for advancing these therapies toward clinical and commercial success.
Topics of interest include:
- Latest technologies (CRISPR, Prime and Base Editors, TALENs, ZFNs ) to enable “precision” genome editing
- Manufacturing considerations when choosing delivery platforms (Viral vs. non-viral delivery e.g., lipid nanoparticles, polymer-based systems)
- Scalability and standardization of delivery of gene editors (electroporation, viral, non-viral, polymer-based etc.)
- Ensuring consistency and stability of gene editing components (e.g., guide RNAs, nucleases, delivery vehicles)
- Immunogenicity and mitigation strategies for gene editing components
- Raw material quality and supply chain considerations for clinical translation
- Methods and Approaches for assessing editing efficiency and specificity in vivo
Novel approaches to combine in vivo editing with ex vivo cell therapies (e.g., target painting)
Abstract Submissions
Abstracts (one page maximum) whose subject area is in the Session Description listed above are invited. The abstract should include specific results and conclusions to allow a scientific assessment of the proposed oral presentation.
Please choose up to two relevant session topics as noted in the sessions listed above for which you are submitted your oral or poster abstract.
Oral abstract submission deadline: September 19, 2025
Poster abstract submission deadline: September 19, 2025
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Abstracts must be submitted electronically here; and
- prepared according to this template: docx or doc.
- To ensure receipt of mailings regarding your submission, please add ‘do_not_reply@linklings.com‘ to your address book.
- Abstracts of all presentations will be made available to conference participants prior to the start of the conference.
- Awards will be presented to the top student poster and best overall poster.
Poster Guidelines
The best posters display a succinct statement of major conclusions at the beginning, followed by supporting text in later segments and a brief summary at the end. Click here for instructions and more information.Poster Size: 1.0 meter wide and 1.5 meters in length (Portrait style).
Advancing Manufacture of Cell and Gene Therapies Award
July 15, 2025
PURPOSE
The Advancing Manufacture of Cell and Gene Therapies Award recognizes outstanding contributors to the development and commercialization of Cell-Based Therapies. Past recipients include Bob Nerem, Kim Warren, Peter Zandstra, Greg Rusotti and Paula Alves.
The award nominations will be judged according to criteria as set forth in this document.
AWARD
For each conference, an award of cash and a commemorative plaque will be presented to the recipient at the conference. The 2026 award is sponsored by NIIMBL and Engineering Conferences International (ECI).
ELIGIBILITY
This Award is open to all industrial and academic researchers and practitioners in the field of cell-based therapies. It is expected that the award recipient will register and attend the conference.
EVALUATION
Nomination packages will be evaluated by a committee of leaders in the field established by the conference chairs
CRITERIA
The nominations will be judged on the originality, impact, and overall quality of work; significance to the development and commercialization of cell-based therapies; and other supporting information in the nomination package.
NOMINATION PACKAGE (all documents should have 1-inch margins all around and use font no smaller than Arial 11 or Times 12 point). Self-nominations are welcome. The nomination package must consist of the following items:
- A nomination cover sheet;
- A nomination letter of no more than 3 pages including a description of the nominee’s contributions to the development and commercialization of Cell-Based Therapies; and
- A resume including publications, patents, and other contributions by the nominee.
Optional items:
A maximum of two supporting letters from individuals in the field may be provided.
The items in the nomination package should include the following information:
- Name of nominee
- Present position (exact title)
- Mailing address (including email)
- Education, including (a) Institution; (b) Degree received; (c) Major or field
- Positions held
- Companies or institutions
- Positions or titles
- Time periods
- Academic and/or professional honors and awards
- Technical and professional society memberships and offices held
- Supporting letters
- Nominator’s name, address (including email), signature and date
THE COMPLETE NOMINATION PACKAGE should be submitted in electronic form as a SINGLE PDF FILE WITH THE NAME OF THE NOMINEE, and should include the scanned, signed letters of support (if any).
Nomination packages are due by midnight EDT July 15, 2025 to:
Barbara Hickernell, ECI Executive Director, at barbara@engconfintl.org
Christopher Hewitt Outstanding Young Investigator Award
July 15, 2025
Engineering Conferences International is pleased to announce that nominations for the Christopher Hewitt Outstanding Young Investigator Award are now open. The award recipient will be a promising young scientist whose work shows exceptional promise in the field of process development of cell based and gene based therapies. The award includes the opportunity to present their research at the conference as well as the waiver of the conference registration fee.
Chris was a leading biological engineer, distinguished for his research using flow cytometry and cell sorting to understand the interaction of the cell with the bioreactor environment within such diverse areas as microbial fermentation, bio-remediation, bio-transformation, brewing and cell culture. He was also the co-founder of the Centre for Biological Engineering at Loughborough University, where he developed a world-leading team in regenerative medicine bioprocessing. In particular, his team made a significant contribution to the literature on the culture and recovery of fully functional human mesenchymal stem cells in stirred bioreactors based on sound biochemical engineering and fluid dynamic considerations essential to scale-up for commercialization. In recognition of his achievements, he was elected Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering in 2018.
Chris Hewett was an active contributor to the ECI conference series “Advancing Manufacturing for Cell based and Gene Based Therapies”.
Eligibility: Any graduate student or post-doc is eligible as is any researcher with fewer than 5 years of industrial or academic experience. Individuals who meet these criteria are invited to submit an abstract to be considered for presentation at the 2026 Advancing Manufacture of Cell and Gene Therapies Conference, curriculum vitae; and two supporting letters of recommendation.
Submission of Nominations: Nominations will be accepted from January 1, 2025 through July 15, 2025. The abstract should be submitted through the normal ECI procedure but a copy of it should accompany the curriculum vita and letters of recommendation.
Please email to barbara@engconfintl.org – subject line should read: Christopher Hewitt Award Nomination for (name of nominee)
Venue Information
Conference Venue: Westin Hilton Head Island, Two Grassland Avenue, Hilton Head Island, SC (Tel: 1-843-681-4000) Accommodations are included in the conference fee.
Hilton Head Island is part of the Lowcountry region in the U.S. state of South Carolina. It is 40 miles north of Savannah and 90 miles of Charleston. The largest barrier island between the Bahamas and Long Island, this twelve-mile island is known for its Atlantic Ocean beaches and golf courses. It lies on the intracoastal waterway and encompasses 42 square miles that include unspoiled sea marshes, creeks, lagoons, heavily wooded forests of tall pines, palmettos, magnolias and giant oaks.
The Harbour Town Lighthouse and Museum marks the southwest tip of the island while the Coastal Discovery Museum features heritage buildings, trees and themed gardens. Between the island and mainland, the Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge salt marsh hosts deer, alligators and birds
Weather for Hilton Head in early February is generally predicted to be highs in the mid-low 60s(F) and lows in the 40s(F).
Common area tours
Daufuskie Island Tour – Remote Daufuskie Island is accessible only by boat and remains largely undeveloped, despite its fame as the setting of Pat Conroy’s novel “The Water is Wide.” Attractions include the First African Baptist Church and Mary Fields School.
Dolphin and Nature Tour of Hilton Head – Cruising the salt-marsh ecosystem in search of dolphins is a popular activity in Hilton Head. Sail along the water from Shelter Cove Marina, down Broad Creek, and into Calibogue Sound, while keeping a lookout for Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, birds, and other animals that call the area home.
Beaufort Gullah Heritage Tour – See the Gullah plantation house, cemetery, and church ruins, and visit the praise house, which still hosts meetings for families on the island. Learn about Gullah heritage and experience island life in the South Carolina Lowcountry.
Month of February: Hilton Head Island Gullah Celebration
Annual month-long celebration of Gullah heritage and culture, with a variety of events across the island including musical and dance performances, food events, traditional and contemporary arts and crafts, storytelling and other spoken arts, and more. More details
Farmer’s Market at the Coastal Discovery Museum – Fresh & Lowcountry Local
Begin your Tuesdays at the Hilton Head Island Farmers Market, where you’ll meet our friendly farmers and vendors, who offer fresh produce, baked goods, drinks, specialty goods, artwork and crafts.
Coastal Discovery Museum
Visit the Coastal Discovery Museum for a fun-filled learning experience. Here, the whole family can discover and explore the wonders of the South Carolina Lowcountry. Take a leisurely stroll around the Museum’s majestic 68-acre property. Investigate the salt marsh on their boardwalks. Marvel at the beauty of the Spanish Moss dangling from Live Oaks. Take a step back in time to imagine life on Hilton Head years ago.
General Information about ECI
Engineering Conferences International (ECI) is a not-for-profit, global engineering conferences program, originally established in 1962 that provides opportunities for the exploration of problems and issues of concern to engineers and scientists from many disciplines.
The format of the conference provides morning and late afternoon or evening sessions in which major presentations are made. Poster sessions will be scheduled for evening discussion as well. Available time is included during the afternoons for ad hoc meetings, informal discussions, and/or recreation. This format is designed to enhance rapport among participants and promote dialogue on the development of the meeting. We believe the conferences have been instrumental in generating ideas and disseminating information to a greater extent than is possible through more conventional forums.
All participants are expected both to attend the entire conference and to contribute actively to the discussions. The recording/photographing of lectures and presentations is forbidden. As ECI conferences take place in an informal atmosphere, casual clothing is the usual attire.
Smoking is prohibited at ECI conferences and conference functions.