Cambridge Healthtech Institute's 11th Annual

Intensified and Continuous Bioprocessing

Driving Efficiency, Cost, and Sustainability

August 18 - 19, 2025 ALL TIMES EDT

The Intensified and Continuous Bioprocessing conference will once again bring industry leaders together to explore breakthrough strategies for process intensification and continuous processing across diverse modalities. Discussions will focus on overcoming key challenges such as product quality differences between batch and continuous modes, and integration of up- and down-stream continuous bioprocessing. With special sessions on sustainability, PAT, and digital twins, this conference equips attendees with practical solutions to tackle bottlenecks and optimize production efficiency.

Monday, August 18

8:00 amRegistration Open and Morning Coffee

INNOVATIONS IN CONTINUOUS PROCESSING OF NOVEL MODALITIES

9:40 am

Chairperson's Remarks

David W. Wood, PhD, Professor, Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Ohio State University

9:45 am KEYNOTE PRESENTATION:

Single-Pass Tangential Flow Filtration for Continuous Concentration and Purification of mRNA Therapeutics

Andrew Zydney, PhD, Bayard D. Kunkle Chair & Professor, Chemical Engineering, Pennsylvania State University

Ultrafiltration is widely used for concentration and purification of mRNA, but performance is limited by fouling and mRNA degradation. This talk explores the development of single pass tangential flow filtration (SPTFF) technology for downstream processing of mRNA. SPTFF was successfully demonstrated using both conventional TFF modules and a novel vibratory membrane system with enhanced performance. Stable operation with 10X concentration factors were readily achieved, without any loss of mRNA integrity.

10:15 am

POSTER HIGHLIGHT: Manufacturing mRNA-loaded Lipid Nanoparticles Through Precise Size and Morphology Control

Aniket Pradip Udepurkar, Postdoctoral Assoc, Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology

We present a novel method for producing mRNA-loaded lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) with independent control over size and morphology. By decoupling particle formation from mixing, and using tunable fusogenic conditions followed by kinetic arrest, the approach enables rational LNP design. Demonstrated in an impinging jet mixer, the method supports predictive modeling and quality control.

10:45 amIn-Room Networking Introductions
11:00 am

Computational Modeling for Cost-Effective, Continuous rAAV Production

Francesco Destro, PhD, Postdoctoral Associate, Chemical Engineering, Center for Biomedical Innovation, Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) manufacturing faces significant challenges in scalability and cost-effectiveness, limiting the widespread application of rAAV-based gene therapies. This presentation showcases how computational modeling is a crucial tool for addressing these challenges. A continuous process for rAAV production is designed through mechanistic modeling and process optimization. The digitally designed continuous rAAV manufacturing process is experimentally validated, achieving high-titer rAAV production for 25 days.

11:30 am Impact of trace impurities on pharmaceutical sugar properties and functionality in biotherapeutic applications

Mark Wagner, Biopharma Sales Manager, North America, DFE Pharma

This talk explores key aspects of excipient and supplier selection, revealing material properties that impact formulation stability—often overlooked by compendial standards. It emphasizes supplier capabilities for a secure supply chain and highlights the need for top-tier products and resilient partnerships. Despite their vital role, excipients receive little attention. By fostering collaboration, we ensure safe, tailored medications and navigate supplier challenges effectively.

11:45 am A Benchtop Pilot Platform with cGMP Flow Paths and DCS Control for Intensified Downstream Processing

Zuwei Jin, PhD, Vice President, Global Business Development, Management, LISURE

We present a novel pilot-scale benchtop system that allows to run major downstream purification processes, such as Chrom, TFF, NFF, inline dilution, and various process intensifications (4C Multi-Column) and integrated processes. This platform features its powerful multi -functionality and cGMP flow paths with three key process configurations and modular concept as well as an industrial DCS control and data management framework aligned with digital transformation. The system represents a transformative shift in downstream process development and can play a critical POC role in tech transfer.

12:00 pm LUNCHEON PRESENTATION: Intensifying the mAb Capture Step for Cost-Efficient Processing

John Jenco, Senior Scientist, Bioprocess Applications, Cytiva

As therapeutic antibodies continue to mature, ongoing improvements in production include increasing cost efficiency and productivity in every phase. The platform approach for purification is appealing, requiring the selection of resins that can efficiently capture and purify the target molecule, but the protein A resin isn't the only consideration. Stage of development, scale-up plans, budgets, and timelines all factor into making the right choice for your process. In this presentation, we will describe and evaluate various strategies for the monoclonal antibody (mAb) capture step. We’ll look at factors to consider when choosing a strategy, including the mode of operation and the main priorities for the capture step, such as productivity, cost, or process time. We will also discuss opportunities presented by the recent introduction of high-capacity protein A resins and explore how and when different protein A resins can be beneficial.

12:30 pmSession Break

INTEGRATED AND INNOVATIVE CONTINUOUS BIOPROCESS STRATEGIES

12:50 pm

Chairperson's Remarks

Jeffrey N. Odum, Strategic Consultant, NCBioSource

12:55 pm

Process Intensification over Steel: Delivering Lower Costs and “Just-in-Time” Capacity through Ultra-High Productivity Continuous Bioprocessing

Christopher Hwang, PhD, Executive Vice President & CTO, Transcenta Therapeutics/HJB

We present a hybrid continuous bioprocessing platform integrating high-intensity perfusion and hybrid continuous downstream processing. The process delivers >10-fold productivity gains (up to 8 g/L-day) with enhanced process/product control and improved product quality. Designed for ease of implementation, the modular platform reduces COGs, enables near “just-in-time” capacity, and incorporates risk mitigation across upstream and downstream. Successfully implemented at manufacturing scale, it demonstrates how process intensification can accelerate and de-risk biologics production.

1:25 pm

Fully End-to-End Continuous Production of Recombinant Proteins using E. coli

Juergen Mairhofer, CEO & Co-Founder, enGenes Biotech GmbH

Continuous biomanufacturing is transforming recombinant protein production, offering efficiency and scalability. We introduce enGenes-eXpress, a growth-decoupled E. coli system that is genetically stabilized and mitigates adaptive evolution in a two-stage chemostat. This process enables sustained, high-yield recombinant protein production while reducing operational footprint, CAPEX, and OPEX. Our platform outperforms traditional fed-batch methods, making continuous production viable for biopharma and industrial biotech. By integrating cost-effective solutions with process intensification, enGenes-eXpress paves the way for decentralized, scalable biomanufacturing.

1:55 pm Improve Manufacturing Efficiencies with the Latest Advanced Chromatography Resins     

Jessay Devassy, RD&E Group Leader, Ecolab Life Sciences

There are many factors to consider when selecting a chromatography resin for use in a biopharmaceutical purification process. No longer does a singular affinity solution address the needs of increasing molecular complexities, cost and time pressures, as well as operating sustainably. Building on the success of the Purolite™ AP+ resin portfolio, Ecolab is excited to add the latest AP+ resin innovation, Purolite AP+50, to its toolbox where economic efficiencies, acceleration to market, and optimized performance are in focus. Purolite AP+50 offers high binding capacity, resolution, and stability to optimize your purification process.

2:25 pm

Development of an Innovative Column-Free Continuous Antibody Purification Technology

Tadayoshi Kawasaki, PhD, Director, DRK Bioprocess Technology Consulting, Technical Advisor of Noritake Co., Ltd.

We have developed an innovative antibody capturing technology that efficiently and continuously purifies antibody proteins without using a chromatography column. This system allows continuous capture of monoclonal antibodies directly from cell-containing culture fluid without clarification. The basic principle is that the affinity binding reaction is promoted by forcibly mixing the monoclonal antibody and Protein A resin in an in-line static mixer, and the antibody-bound resin is separated and collected from the culture fluid by a hydrocyclone. The monoclonal antibody is then collected by dissociating the antibody protein from the collected resin. The resin from which the antibody protein has been desorbed is regenerated by mixing it with a regeneration buffer in a static mixer after CIP. This series of operations is continuously circulated by connecting multiple units and used for capturing. Since this technology does not use a chromatography column, there is no need for a clarification process to separate solids from the culture fluid, and not only does it eliminate the need for centrifuges and depth filters that were previously used, but it also does not require a chromatography column, which eliminates the need for column packing and qualification operations. This shortens the monoclonal antibody manufacturing process and makes it possible to use single-use for all processes, leading to reduced capital investment.

2:55 pm

Advancing Platform Processes through Intensified Operations and PAT

Zachary Houle, Senior Engineer & Senior Development Specialist, Upstream Process Development, Takeda Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd.

This talk will examine strategies for enhancing bioprocess platforms through process intensification and Process Analytical Technology (PAT) implementation. We'll explore continuous processing approaches, advanced monitoring systems, and real-time quality control methods that maximize efficiency while maintaining product integrity.

3:25 pmNetworking Refreshment Break and Transition to Plenary Keynote

PLENARY KEYNOTE SESSION: SOLVING TODAY'S CHALLENGES

4:20 pm

Organizer's Remarks

Daniel Barry, Senior Conference Director, Cambridge Healthtech Institute

4:25 pm

Chairperson's Remarks

Raghavan V. Venkat, PhD, Senior Vice President, Biopharmaceutical Development, AstraZeneca

4:30 pm

Increasing mAb Output Ten-Fold while Reducing Natural Resources through Digitalization and New Technologies

Lisbet Jensen Young, Vice President & General Manager, AstraZeneca

This presentation will give insights into the latest sustainability strategies at AstraZeneca and the unique opportunities they provide the leadership of a mAb drug substance manufacturing center, increasing output ten-fold. It will take you through the approaches using digital in the value stream, partnering with suppliers in capacity expansions, and deployment of new technologies.

5:10 pm

One-on-One Interview, with Audience Q&A

Lisbet Jensen Young, Vice President & General Manager, AstraZeneca

Interviewed By:

Raghavan V. Venkat, PhD, Senior Vice President, Biopharmaceutical Development, AstraZeneca

5:30 pmWelcome Reception in the Exhibit Hall with Poster Viewing

Sponsorship Opportunity Available

YOUNG SCIENTIST MEET-UP

6:00 pm

Young Scientist Meet-Up

Carme Pons Royo, PhD, Postdoctoral Associate, Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Merlinda-Loriane Deladem Sewavi, M.S. Founder, Lead Consultant, Syntheia Biosystems

This young scientist meet-up is an opportunity to get to know and network with mentors of the Bioprocessing Summit community. This session aims to inspire the next generation of young scientists by giving direct access to established leaders in the field. 

  • Get to know fellow peers and colleagues
  • Make connections and network with other institutions
  • Discuss the role of mentors and peers role models in the workplace​​

6:30 pmClose of Day

Tuesday, August 19

7:30 amRegistration and Morning Coffee

SUSTAINABILITY & LIFECYCLE ANALYSIS

7:55 am

Chairperson's Remarks

Andrew Sinclair, MSc, CEng, FIChemE, FREng, President & Founder, BioPharm Services Ltd.

8:00 am

Revolutionizing Bioprocess Development: Sustainability Meets Innovation in the Digital Age

Andrew Sinclair, MSc, CEng, FIChemE, FREng, President & Founder, BioPharm Services Ltd.

Early process development is crucial for reducing environmental impact and pursuing sustainable, cost-effective bioprocessing. Traditional metrics like Process Mass Intensity (PMI) are inadequate for predicting energy use and CO2 emissions. A new approach uses early process information to build a digital factory in BioSolve Process to evaluate cost, building, and process energy, enabling accurate environmental impact predictions. This allows for easy rescaling and assessment of various technologies and process options. This revolutionary modeling approach establishes new green metrics and facilitates predictive modeling by Clinical Phase II for optimizing cost and sustainability. It enables complete manufacturing optimization before the process is fixed, a currently unavailable capability. A case study explores strategies for minimizing environmental impact and costs through process intensification, optimization of water usage, and HVAC improvements.

8:30 am

Reduce Energy Usage for Drug Substance Facilities: Development and Application of Models

Ken Hamilton, Distinguished Engineer, Genentech

This presentation is focused on developing and applying models to evaluate energy usage in bioprocess facilities. We describe the key facility inputs that should be included. Model structure is reviewed. The role of facility equipment type, cleanroom classification and facility size are discussed. Factors that most influence energy usage are discussed. An end-to-end review of facility attributes and those that most contribute to energy usage are discussed.

9:00 am

Enhancing the Sustainability of Drug Substance Processes through Process Evolution and Facility Fit Modeling

Christopher Furcht, PhD, Director, Biologics Development, Bristol Myers Squibb

“Green by Design” is a strategic imperative to improve environmental sustainability metrics of our manufacturing processes. This effort is particularly important for more complex biologics such as bispecific antibodies, which often have a higher process mass intensity (PMI) than traditional monoclonal antibodies. Here, we demonstrate a combined approach of implementing facility fit modeling and downstream process optimizations to improve process sustainability through decreased water and raw material requirements.

9:30 am Downstream Process Intensification by 2-Chromatography Step Processes and Multi-Column Chromatography

Jennifer Knister, Commercial Product Manager, Process Solutions, Tosoh Bioscience LLC

: Process intensification of downstream processing comes with a host of advantages, such as reduced costs, shorter processing times, and improved sustainability. Two approaches to process intensification are the reduction in unit operations through the use of modern resins and multi-column chromatography. Wet-lab proof of concepts demonstrate that these approaches have similar purity and recovery to more traditional approaches. Economic modeling in Biosolve demonstrates the cost savings these process intensification approaches provide. Finally, the integration of these approaches through connected processing, utilizing the OctaveTM Multi-Column Chromatography system, will be shown.

9:45 amQ&A with Session Speakers

10:00 amCoffee Break in the Exhibit Hall with Poster Viewing

SPEED NETWORKING

10:15 am

Speed Networking: How Many New Contacts Can You Make?

Kevin Brawley, Project Manager, Production Operations & Communications, Cambridge Innovation Institute

Bring yourself and your business cards or e-cards, and be prepared to share and summarize the key elements of your research in a minute. Bioprocessing Summit will provide a location, timer, and fellow attendees to facilitate the introductions.

10:45 amBreakout Discussions

Breakout Discussions are informal, moderated discussions, allowing participants to exchange ideas and experiences and develop future collaborations around a focused topic. Each discussion will be led by a facilitator who keeps the discussion on track and the group engaged. To get the most out of this format, please come prepared to share examples from your work, be a part of a collective, problem-solving session, and participate in active idea sharing. Please visit the Breakout Discussions page on the conference website for a complete listing of topics and descriptions.

TABLE 1:

AI-Empowering PAT and Continued Process Verification

William Whitford, Founder, Oamaru BioSystems

  • What new analytics and monitoring tools are most increasing the amount of valuable process data?
  • What AI/ML-empowered tools are being employed to improve bioprocess development and control?
  • How is AI/ML involved in the third stage of process validation: continued process verification (CPV)?
  • What are the unique aspects of applying GAMP 5 to AI-empowered PAT tools in a GxP environment?
TABLE 2:

Under What Situations Is Continuous Biomanufacturing Justified?

Alois Jungbauer, PhD, Professor & Head, Biotechnology, Institute of Bioprocess Science and Engineering, BOKU University

  • ​Decision criteria business case: market size and dose of the product
  • Distributed versus centralized manufacturing
  • Stability of product and manufacturing complexity
11:30 am

Regeneration of Spent Culture Media for Sustainable and Continuous mAb Production via Ion Concentration Polarization

Jongyoon Han, PhD, Professor, Electrical Engineering & Computer Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology

We have developed a self-recycling perfusion bioreactor that leads to lower cost of goods and reduced environmental impact compared to conventional perfusion manufacturing processes. After harvesting mAbs we process spent media in our waste separation device that utilizes ion concentration polarization to remove ammonia and lactate. Our process allows us to "regenerate" media by replacing depleted nutrients and recycling them into the bioreactor without accumulating inhibitory metabolic waste products.

12:00 pm PANEL DISCUSSION:

Fed-Batch vs. Continuous: The Decision Space for Implementation

PANEL MODERATOR:

Jeffrey N. Odum, Strategic Consultant, NCBioSource

Faced with making the choice between a traditional fed-batch manufacturing platform and moving to a continuous/perfusion-based process, what are the sourcing decisions that must be addressed? This panel aims to identify critical decision parameters and discuss a decision space model that includes: 

  • Molecule fit for the process
  • Productivity, Yield, and Manufacturability
  • Speed to Clinic
  • Speed to Market
  • Risk Mitigation Strategy
PANELISTS:

Andrew Sinclair, MSc, CEng, FIChemE, FREng, President & Founder, BioPharm Services Ltd.

Ken Hamilton, Distinguished Engineer, Genentech

12:30 pm iPSC Expansion and Differentiation: Controlled Cell Processing for an Efficient Lab and Commercial Scale Production

Jacob Andrews, Vice President, Strategy & Innovation, CARR Biosystems

This presentation addresses key considerations for iPSC development, focusing on the expansion and differentiation of cell aggregates. We present two case studies that evaluate the use of an automated and closed cell processing technology for cell passaging and demonstrate the impact on proliferation, morphology, phenotype, and genetic stability. This work highlights how controlled and scalable cell processing optimizes the lab and prepares iPSC-based therapies for success at commercial scale.

12:45 pm Off the Shelf Continuous Purification Systems from Development to Commercial Scale

Kevin Hill-Byrne, CTO, PAK BioSolutions

The scale up or scale down of bioprocesses can be challenging due to many factors, including facility fit. PAK BioSolutions explored this topic of scalability and facility fit with its continuous downstream processing systems, which are offered at three scales: process development scale (1-10 L/day), pilot scale (50-500 L/day), and commercial scale (1000-12,000 L/day).  While the physical hardware changes across the scales, the automation software and control strategy remain largely the same.  It was demonstrated that PAK BioSolutions continuous purification systems allow for a significant increase in the range of volumes that can be processed in a single facility.

1:00 pmEnjoy Lunch on Your Own

1:30 pmRefreshment Break in the Exhibit Hall with Poster Viewing

Sponsorship Opportunity Available

Mentoring Meet-Up

1:35 pm

Mentoring Meet-Up

Myra Coufal, PhD, Director, Process Development, Amgen Inc.

This meet-up is designed for senior scientists who are interested in becoming mentors for junior scientists. Through casual conversation, participants will explore what it takes to be a mentor, how to find the right match, and ways to establish safety and confidentiality within the mentoring relationship. The discussion will also cover time commitments, the frequency of meetings, and the pros and cons of remote versus in-person interactions.


DIGITAL TWINS AND PAT FOR CONTINUOUS BIOPROCESSING

2:10 pm

Chairperson's Remarks

Alois Jungbauer, PhD, Professor & Head, Biotechnology, Institute of Bioprocess Science and Engineering, BOKU University

2:15 pm

Digital Twins for Vial-Based Continuous Lyophilization

Richard D. Braatz, PhD, Edwin R. Gilliland Professor, Massachusetts Institute of Technology

A mechanistic model is presented for a continuous lyophilization process. The model considers state-of-the-art lyophilization technology, in which vials are suspended and move continuously through the process. The model predicts the evolution of critical process parameters, including product temperature, ice/water fraction, sublimation front position, and concentration of bound water. The model is applied to process design and optimization of continuous lyophilization. The model is made available in MATLAB and Julia as a software package called ContLyo, which can be used to guide the design and development of continuous lyophilization processes.

2:45 pm

Development of End-to-End Digital Twins for Continuous Bioprocessing

Gabriele Bano, PhD, Head of Process Modeling, Global CMC Development - Data Sciences, Sanofi

In this talk, we discuss the development of a comprehensive modeling strategy for a continuous downstream process for monoclonal and multi-specific antibodies. The modeling framework includes (i) an end-to-end systems model for process design, optimization, and what-if analysis; (ii) residence-time distribution models to support control strategy definition; (iii) multivariate statistical process monitoring models for real-time process monitoring, and (iv) advanced process control. We discuss model development, implementation strategy and lessons learned, with particular emphasis on the end-to-end systems model. A demonstration of the modeling capability is provided for a multi-specific antibody.

3:15 pm

Automation, Capacity, and Product Learnings from GMP Integrated Continuous Downstream Manufacturing Process

Jill Paddock, Principal Scientist, Bioprocess Development, Pfizer Inc.

The iSKID downstream process runs continuous protein A capture with periodic cycles of continuous low pH inactivation, anion exchange chromatography and single pass TTF into a collection vessel across several days from a perfusion bioreactor. Key learnings gathered from GMP manufacture of three different products include automation improvements for enhanced productivity, diversion control strategies, and process impurity clearance. These learnings help further optimize iSKID integration within the clinical manufacturing facility.

3:45 pmRefreshment Break in the Exhibit Hall with Poster Viewing

Sponsorship Opportunity Available

CELL-LINE DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES FOR INTENSIFIED/CONTINUOUS PROCESSES

4:25 pm

Chairperson's Remarks

Hussain Nuruddin Dahodwala, PhD, IBBR NIST-UMD

4:30 pm

Towards Intensified Continuous Manufacturing for Scalable rAAV Production

Maria Barreira Gonzalez, PhD, Programme Head of Gene Modification, Cell & Gene Therapy Catapult

Intensified, continuous manufacturing processes have been developed to address challenges in rAAV production, improving scalability, yield, and efficiency. We present an upstream perfusion platform optimized for high cell density, continuous harvest, and feeding strategies, along with transient transfection optimization to enhance productivity. These innovations lay the foundation for overcoming current production limitations, ensuring consistent, high-quality rAAV for large-scale gene therapy manufacturing and advancing future therapeutic applications.

5:00 pm

Strategies to Support Perfusion/Intensified Fed-Batch Cultures

Hussain Nuruddin Dahodwala, PhD, IBBR NIST-UMD

Perfusion and intensified cultures reduce costs, shorten production durations, and maximize recombinant productivity. Using NISTCHO, an open-access living standard, we achieved a 3x productivity increase with shorter culture durations through media screening, culture additives, optimized feeds, and seeding/bleeding strategies. Improved specific productivity via N-1 culture and feed strategies highlights their role in cell culture optimization for continuous and intensified processes.

5:30 pmClose of Intensified and Continuous Bioprocessing Conference