Professor Qasim Rafiq's Inaugural Lecture. From Blood to Bioreactor

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Abstract

In an era where personalised medicine is at the forefront of healthcare innovation, my work focuses on developing scalable, efficient, and robust bioprocessing solutions to advance cell and gene therapies from the laboratory to the clinic. Central to this effort is the engineering of manufacturing platforms for CAR-T cells, stem cells, and viral vectors—technologies that hold transformative potential in treating cancer and other life-threatening diseases.

Through a multidisciplinary approach integrating automation, digitalisation, and bioprocess engineering, I collaborate with leading clinical, industrial, and global academic partners to optimise therapy manufacture. My research addresses the critical challenges of scalability and cost-effectiveness, ensuring these advanced therapies become accessible to patients worldwide.

Alongside my research, I am passionate about training the next generation of bioprocess engineers. At UCL East, I founded the MSc in Manufacture and Commercialisation of Stem Cell and Gene Therapy, equipping students with the expertise needed to innovate in this rapidly evolving field.

This lecture will explore the engineering and manufacturing advancements shaping the future of healthcare, showcasing how partnerships across academia, industry, and the clinic are driving the delivery of life-changing therapies, and the leading efforts we are taking to train the next generation of scientists, engineers, and business professionals to continue driving change.

Professor Qasim Rafiq

Qasim is a Professor in Bioprocess Engineering and Vice Dean (Health) in the Faculty of Engineering Sciences. His research focuses on Cell and Gene Therapy Bioprocessing. He is Chartered Engineer (CEng), a Chartered Scientist (CSci), a  Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA) and was recognised as one of the top 20 influential and inspirational individuals in Advanced Medicine for 2020 by The Medicine Maker listed amongst Nobel Laureates, multi-national CEOs and leading scientists.