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Olufunmilola Ibironke

@olufunmilolaibironke

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Analytical cell biologist with expertise in assay development.

United States

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What I'm looking for

I seek a role that fosters innovation and collaboration in biologics development.

I am an analytical and cell biologist with over a decade of experience in designing, developing, and validating analytical methods and cell-based potency assays within GMP and GLP environments. My work has primarily focused on CAR-T therapy, protein expression, and regulatory-compliant assay development for biologics. I pride myself on my proven track record in scientific leadership, team supervision, and cross-functional collaboration, all while maintaining a commitment to scientific excellence and operational efficiency.

In my current role as a Principal Scientist at Novartis Pharmaceuticals, I lead the design and validation of CAR-T potency assays and sterility testing, ensuring compliance with GMP standards. My experience includes developing and optimizing various assays, including ELISA and qPCR, to support IND submissions. I have also supervised technical teams and contributed to method transfers to QC, demonstrating my ability to manage complex projects and drive results in a collaborative environment.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Principal Scientist / Senior Expert

Novartis Pharmaceuticals

Feb 2022 - Present (3 years 4 months)

Led design and validation of CAR-T potency assays, sterility testing, and immune profiling in compliance with GMP. Developed and optimized ELISA, qPCR, cytotoxicity, and flow-based assays supporting IND submissions. Supervised technical teams and served as HSE and Green Lab liaison.

CAR T Potency Assays Cytotoxicity IND Submission Nanostring MSD

Scientist – Analytical Development

Bristol Myers Squibb

Sep 2021 - Present (3 years 9 months)

Led sterility and mycoplasma assay development (qPCR/ddPCR) in a QC environment. Developed and qualified analytical methods across multiple therapeutic areas. Conducted NGS library preparation and primary immune cell (PBMC) handling for potency studies.

Sterility Assay Development Mycoplasma Assay Development DdPCR PBMC Handling Potency Studies

Research Scientist (Postdoc) – Immunology & Microbiome

Rutgers University

Jan 2018 - Present (7 years 5 months)

Directed ex vivo immunological assays and cytokine analyses using R/Prism. Developed lab procedures, trained junior researchers, and ensured GLP compliance. Led multiple DOD-funded projects exploring host-microbiome-metabolism interactions.

Ex Vivo Immunological Assays GLP Host Microbiome Metabolism Interactions

PhD Graduate Researcher – Molecular Biology and Immunology

Rutgers University

Jan 2015 - Present (10 years 5 months)

Developed cell-based assays and RNA/protein expression methods to study T-cell responses under pollutant exposure. Utilized siRNA knockdown and glucose starvation models in breast cancer cells.

Cell Based Assays Protein Expression T Cell Responses Pollutant Exposure SiRNA Glucose Starvation Models

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

Harvard University

Certificate, Biotechnology Management

Currently enrolled in a certificate program focused on biotechnology management. Developing expertise in strategic leadership and operational aspects pertinent to the biotechnology industry.

Rutgers University

Certificate, Data Science

Acquired practical skills in data science through a dedicated certificate program. Focused on programming languages such as Python and R, alongside database management using SQL for data analysis and manipulation.

Johns Hopkins University

Certificate, Vaccine Development

Completed a specialized certificate program in vaccine development. Studied key principles and practices in immunology and public health related to vaccine research and production.

Rutgers University

PhD, Physiology and Integrative Biology

Conducted extensive research in molecular biology and immunology, focusing on T-cell responses to pollutant exposure. Developed and utilized cell-based assays and RNA/protein expression methods, including siRNA knockdown and glucose starvation models in breast cancer cells.

Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health

MS, Molecular Microbiology and Immunology

Completed a Master of Science degree specializing in molecular microbiology and immunology. Gained in-depth knowledge and practical skills in advanced microbiological techniques and immunological principles relevant to public health.