Professor Sakis Mantalaris, a renowned figure in cell therapy research, has been awarded a staggering €4.88 million as part of the esteemed Science Foundation Ireland Research Professorship Programme. This significant award will support Professor Mantalaris and his team of researchers in pioneering a transformative research program aimed at enhancing the biomanufacturing of cellular therapeutics, ultimately leading to improved clinical outcomes.
Professor Mantalaris, who holds the Don Panoz Chair of Pharmaceutical Biology at the School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences at Trinity College, and is also the Principal Investigator at the National Institute for Bioprocessing Research and Training (NIBRT), is set to make substantial strides in the field of cell therapy. The transfer of living cells from one source or person to another, or into the same person after manipulation for a desired function, shows great promise in treating patients with advanced cancers, immune or degenerative conditions. However, the unpredictability of the product due to variability in cell quality, type, and manufacturing processes is a notable challenge that Professor Mantalaris and his team are dedicated to addressing.
Through interdisciplinary collaborations and a focus on fundamental science, biomanufacturing engineering science, and future clinical translation, Professor Mantalaris aims to elevate Ireland’s position in the growing cell and gene therapy ecosystem. Additionally, he plans to establish a new MSc training program in Advanced Precision Therapeutics & Biomanufacturing, in partnership with NIBRT, St James’s Hospital, and IBTS, further demonstrating his commitment to advancing the field.
Speaking on the significance of the award, Professor Mantalaris expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Ireland is a global leader in the ‘knowledge-based’ biomanufacturing sector, which is being shaped by the emergence of novel complex personalized medicines, such as cellular therapeutics. This award will provide a unique opportunity to integrate the academic excellence at Trinity College Dublin with the biomanufacturing excellence at the National Institute for Bioprocessing Research and Training (NIBRT) towards future clinical translation of cellular therapies at the St James’s academic campus.”
Prof Philip Nolan, Director General of Science Foundation Ireland, welcomed the appointment, highlighting the impact of Professor Mantalaris’ research in bolstering cell therapy research and strengthening Ireland’s global biopharma sector.
This groundbreaking award underscores the pivotal role of Professor Sakis Mantalaris in advancing the field of cell therapy and his commitment to driving innovation and excellence in biomanufacturing, with far-reaching implications for the future of medical treatment. As cell therapy continues to gain recognition as a revolutionary approach to treating a range of medical conditions, Professor Mantalaris’ pioneering research holds immense promise for patients worldwide.