Zhen Li, Ph.D., MBA, Asq Cssbb
About Zhen Li, Ph.D., MBA, Asq Cssbb
Zhen Li, Ph.D., MBA, is an Associate Director of Process Development at Kite Pharma, with over 12 years of experience in Cancer Cell and Gene Therapy. He has held various roles in notable companies such as Bristol Myers Squibb and Celgene, and possesses advanced degrees in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biomedical Engineering.
Work at Kite Pharma
Zhen Li, Ph.D., MBA, serves as the Associate Director of Process Development at Kite Pharma since 2022. In this role, Li is responsible for overseeing the development and optimization of processes related to cell therapy. Kite Pharma is recognized for its focus on innovative cancer therapies, particularly in the field of cell and gene therapy. Li's expertise in current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMPs) and process improvement is integral to the company's mission of delivering high-quality therapeutic solutions.
Previous Experience at Bristol Myers Squibb
Prior to joining Kite Pharma, Zhen Li worked at Bristol Myers Squibb from 2019 to 2022. Initially, Li held the position of Supervisor in Cell Therapy CMC Testing for two years, where responsibilities included managing testing processes and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Li later advanced to the role of Manager in the same department for nine months, further enhancing expertise in cell therapy and quality management.
Education and Expertise
Zhen Li holds a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from Jinan University, along with a Master of Engineering (MEng) in Biomedical Engineering from the same institution. Li also earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Supply Chain Management and Strategy & Leadership from Rutgers Business School. This diverse educational background supports Li's extensive expertise in cancer cell and gene therapy, process development, and regulatory compliance.
Background in Research and Management
Zhen Li's career includes significant roles in research and project management. Li served as a Postdoctoral Scholar and Project Manager at the University of California, Los Angeles, from 2011 to 2015. Additionally, Li worked as a Laboratory Operations & Project Manager at the Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey from 2015 to 2018. These positions contributed to Li's skills in modeling and simulation, Design of Experiments (DOE), and Statistical Process Control (SPC).
Certifications and Skills
Zhen Li holds several professional certifications, including Lean Six Sigma Black Belt and MBTI® Step I & II Practitioner. These certifications reflect Li's proficiency in process improvement, quality management, and personality assessment. Li is also skilled in SAP S/4HANA, which is essential for managing business operations, and has experience in digital transformations, showcasing the ability to integrate technology into business processes.