Richard Smith
About Richard Smith
Richard Smith serves as the Executive Director of Cell Engineering at Kite Pharma, where he integrates new technologies in cell therapy development. He has extensive experience in the biotechnology sector, having held various roles at notable companies and institutions, including Amgen and Stanford University.
Current Role at Kite Pharma
Richard Smith serves as the Executive Director of Cell Engineering at Kite Pharma, a position he has held since 2021. In this role, he focuses on the integration of new technologies in the development of cell therapies. His leadership contributes to advancing Kite Pharma's mission in the biotechnology sector, particularly in enhancing therapeutic options for patients.
Previous Experience at Kite Pharma
Prior to his current role, Richard Smith worked at Kite Pharma as the Senior Director of Protein Sciences from 2020 to 2021. During his tenure in Emeryville, California, he was involved in key projects that supported the company's protein science initiatives, contributing to the overall development of innovative therapies.
Professional Background in Biotechnology
Richard Smith has extensive experience in the biotechnology field. He worked at Amgen in various capacities, including Director of Research from 2014 to 2017 and Director of Preclinical from 2017 to 2020. His roles at Amgen involved overseeing research and preclinical development, enhancing collaboration across teams. He also held positions at Avidia Inc. and Stanford University, where he developed a strong foundation in scientific research and collaboration.
Education and Expertise in Virology
Richard Smith earned a PhD in Virology from the University of Glasgow, where he studied from 1994 to 1998. He also holds a BA (Hons) in Natural Sciences from the University of Cambridge, obtained from 1991 to 1994. His educational background provides a solid foundation for his expertise in cell therapy and biotechnology.
Track Record in Cross-Functional Collaboration
Richard Smith has a proven track record in building cross-functional collaboration within the biotechnology sector. His experience across various organizations has equipped him with the skills to foster teamwork and innovation, essential for advancing scientific research and development in the field.