Yonsei University's K-NIBRT Project announced the successful completion of the first "CAR-T Cell Therapy Process Hands-on Training" program, the first of its kind in Korea. The course was held at the Pharmaceutical and Biopharmaceutical Convergence Research Center on the Yonsei International Campus from July 7 to July 11.

This training was specifically designed as a hands-on, practice-oriented course covering the entire CAR-T therapy manufacturing process. It was offered to trainees who had completed the "Biopharmaceuticals I & IV" theoretical courses. Participants strengthened their practical skills by directly handling core processes and equipment used in the industry, including T-cell isolation and activation, gene delivery (Electroporation, Lentivirus Transduction), cell expansion and harvesting, and quality analysis (QC Analytics).

The program's professional relevance and on-site applicability were enhanced by including practical sessions using GMP-grade equipment from global companies, such as the CTS system, Sefia system, and automated process development equipment. Additionally, a QC analysis workshop was held on the final day to strengthen quality control skills, creating a comprehensive educational model that covers the entire process from manufacturing to quality control.

The program was highly praised for its systematic design, which was based on a curriculum planned around industry demand, a practical connection with partner companies, and the requirement for trainees to complete prerequisite theoretical courses. The project's unique expertise was also evident in its meticulous operational design, which ensured the quality of the training throughout the entire process, including session length, equipment accessibility, and a structured feedback system.

A survey of the trainees revealed high satisfaction across all categories, including practical relevance, educational quality, and the expertise of the instructors. There was also a strong consensus on the need for the program to continue in the future.

"This training is a meaningful starting point for fostering practical talent specialized in the advanced cell and gene therapy industry," said Han Kyun-hee, the project director for Yonsei University K-NIBRT. "We will continue to strengthen our close collaboration with the industry to become a central hub for training biopharmaceutical professionals in Korea."

The course was operated in partnership with key collaborating companies such as Cytiva and Thermo Fisher. The Yonsei University K-NIBRT Project plans to continue expanding its diverse, practical training programs to strengthen the competitiveness of the biopharmaceutical industry and develop more professionals in the cell and gene therapy fields. For this growth to continue, ongoing government support and interest in nurturing Korea's bio-talent and strengthening the industrial ecosystem will also be necessary.

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