Philip Eckels

Celebrating his 12th year working in the cell and gene therapy field, Mr. Eckels’ career spans research & development, process development, and clinical manufacturing in the U.S.and Europe. Mr. Eckels has extensive knowledge in viral and non-viral gene modification techniques, cell processing, process automation, vector development, quality, regulatory, and both FDA and EMA Chemistry, Manufacturing and Controls (CMC) strategy.  Mr. Eckels is versed in developing end-to-end manufacturing processes, aseptic (closed) processing strategy, and best practices having spent time as person-in-plant at multiple CMOs in the U.S. and abroad. He also has substantial experience tech transferring processes to and from academic and industry partners. As the Director of Cell Therapy Technical Operations at Ziopharm Oncology (now Alaunos Therapeutics), he oversaw the product development of CAR-T and TCR-T product platforms that were successfully accepted by the FDA for PhaseI/II trials, as well as the buildout of in-house manufacturing capabilities and teams. Mr. Eckels holds a BA in Biology from Gustavus Adolphus College and a Master of Public Health in Biostatistics and Epidemiology from Drexel University.