Babu Kunnel
About Babu Kunnel
Babu Kunnel serves as the Executive Director and Head of Antibody Product and Analytical Sciences at Arcus Biosciences. With extensive experience in the biopharmaceutical industry, he has held significant roles at major companies including Merck and Bristol-Myers Squibb, contributing to the approval of multiple biologics.
Current Role at Arcus Biosciences
Babu Kunnel serves as the Executive Director and Head of Antibody Product and Analytical Sciences at Arcus Biosciences. He has held this position since 2023, working remotely. In this role, he leads efforts in the development and analytical sciences of antibody products, focusing on oncology programs.
Previous Experience in Biopharmaceuticals
Before joining Arcus Biosciences, Kunnel accumulated extensive experience in the biopharmaceutical industry. He worked at Merck from 2011 to 2016 as a Principal Scientist and later as Director of Biologics and Vaccines Analytics from 2017 to 2021. His tenure at Bristol-Myers Squibb spanned from 2004 to 2011, where he held various roles, including Scientist-I and CMC Lead. He also served as Director of Analytical Sciences at MedImmune for one year.
Educational Background
Kunnel holds a Ph.D. in Microbiology from Delhi University, where he studied from 1989 to 1995. He also earned a Master's degree in Microbiology from Aligarh Muslim University, completing his studies from 1986 to 1989. His educational background provides a strong foundation for his work in the biopharmaceutical field.
Contributions to Biologics Development
Kunnel has played a significant role in the approval of multiple biologics, including Siliq, Fasenra, Lusduna, and Lumoxiti. He has led integrated development teams that encompass various functions such as analytical, manufacturing, process development, quality, regulatory, and supply chain management for oncology programs.
Regulatory and International Experience
Kunnel possesses hands-on experience in preparing regulatory submissions, including IND, NDA, BLA, JNDA, and MAA. He has interacted with health authorities both directly and indirectly. His international experience includes conducting due diligence activities in several countries, including China, Germany, Switzerland, the UK, South Korea, the Netherlands, Denmark, and the USA.