Neil Blackburn earned his PhD from the University of Guelph, where he focused on protein biochemistry and immunology. His post-doctoral training at Eli Lilly and Company focused on dendritic cell tolerization and the interaction of immune cells with novel TLR ligands.
Neil next led the development and commercialization of immunochemical-based clinical assays and companion medical devices (Siemens Healthineers) before spending 14 years at Sanofi, in their vaccines division. Holding roles of increasing responsibility at Sanofi, Neil was ultimately accountable to lead transversal CMC teams tasked with ensuring successful transfer of candidates from early development into late-stage pilot and final launch commercial facilities.
Neil has experience in developing tech transfer and PPQ strategies that take full advantage of the QbD design space established in earlier phases of CMC development. Prior to joining OmniaBio, his most recent role was in the small-biotech CGT space, focused on the development of two complementary assets targeting solid tumors (TILs and oncolytic viruses). Neil has comprehensive experience designing phase-appropriate CMC strategies that meet global regulatory requirements.