Max Tejada
About Max Tejada
Max Tejada serves as the Senior Director and Head of Analytical Development at Kite Pharma and has extensive experience in the biopharmaceutical industry, including leadership roles at Genentech and AstraZeneca. He holds advanced degrees in Biochemistry and Business, and has a strong background in various therapeutic modalities.
Current Role at Kite Pharma
Max Tejada serves as Senior Director, Head of Analytical Development at Kite Pharma, a position he has held since 2020. In this role, he oversees the analytical development processes, ensuring the quality and efficacy of therapeutic products. His leadership focuses on advancing Kite Pharma's innovative therapies in the field of oncology.
Previous Experience at Genentech
Tejada worked at Genentech for a total of eleven years, holding multiple roles. He began as a Post Doctoral Scientist from 2000 to 2004, followed by a position as Scientist from 2004 to 2010, and then as Senior Scientist from 2010 to 2015. His tenure at Genentech contributed significantly to his expertise in biochemistry and analytical development.
Professional Background at AstraZeneca and Gilead Sciences
Tejada served as Senior Director, Head of Bioassay, Impurities & Quality Testing at AstraZeneca from 2018 to 2020. Prior to that, he was a Senior Research Scientist II at Gilead Sciences from 2015 to 2018. These roles expanded his experience in quality testing and bioassay methodologies within the biopharmaceutical industry.
Educational Background
Tejada holds multiple degrees in biochemistry and business. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from Laurentian University from 1985 to 1989, followed by a PhD in Biochemistry from Queen's University from 1994 to 2000. Additionally, he obtained a Master of Business Administration from Notre Dame de Namur University, further enhancing his leadership skills in the scientific field.
Expertise in Therapeutic Modalities
Tejada has extensive experience with various therapeutic modalities, including monoclonal antibodies, bispecifics, Fc-fusions, Antibody-Drug-Conjugates, enzymes, as well as cellular and gene therapies. His proficiency in these areas supports his work in analytical development and contributes to the advancement of innovative therapies.