Scaling iPSCs with confidence: where cell biology meets bioprocess engineering

Thomas Richardson, PhD, is a Process Development Manager at Lonza with more than eight years of experience developing and scaling manufacturing processes for cell therapies. His background spans pluripotent stem cell and other autologous and allogeneic cell therapy programs, with expertise in suspension bioreactor development, scale-up, perfusion, process characterization, and technology transfer. He has worked with systems ranging from high-throughput development platforms to 50 L bioreactors, helping advance programs from early development to GMP manufacturing. In his current role, Thomas leads research associates and scientists in developing robust, scalable manufacturing solutions for complex cell therapy products. He earned a PhD in Chemical Engineering from the University of Pittsburgh.

Laura Menendez, PhD, is Director of Cell Therapy Process Development at Lonza Houston, where she leads teams supporting the development and technology transfer of cell therapy manufacturing processes. With more than two decades of experience in stem cell biology, regenerative medicine, and advanced therapeutics, she has extensive expertise in iPSC technology, from reprogramming through stem cell expansion and differentiation.

Dr Menendez earned her PhD in Genetics from the University of Georgia and later completed her postdoctoral training focusing on pluripotent stem cell biology. 

Since joining Lonza in 2013, Dr Menendez has held positions of increasing responsibility, from Scientist to Director, contributing to the development, optimization, and transfer of client cell therapy processes from early-stage development through clinical and commercial manufacturing. 

In her current role, she oversees scientific teams, manages strategic development programs, and partners with clients to advance novel cell therapy products.