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Susan Nichols, Co-Founder and CBO (Stealth) reflects on two decades of working within the advanced therapies industry as Phacilitate celebrates 20 years of operating in the field.
First of all, could you tell me a little bit about your career over the last 20 years?
I came into cell and gene therapy 13 years ago in the service side of the industry.
What inspired you to first get into CGT?
The promise of curative therapies for the most devastating diseases.
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What changes have you observed from the industry over the last 20 years? What’s changed, what challenges have arisen?
A better and constantly enhanced understanding of manufacturing, end points, analytical measurements and approaches based on the learnings of each new entry and unique approach.
What key industry events or milestones have stood out to you over the last 20 years?
CRISPR, first curative therapies, first allogeneic clinical trial, first larger indication data showing promise of curing and treating larger disease states, curative gene therapies for rare disease.
What memories do you have of the first Phacilitate event you ever attended? What year was it?
It was in Washington DC 13 years ago and it was cold and blustery. I remember the warm feeling inside and how open and welcoming everyone was, as well as how focused they were to get life-saving therapies to patients.
What ‘unexpected moments’ do you remember from over the past 20 years of Phacilitate events? Do you have any anecdotes or memories that especially stand out from attending our events, that might have surprised or had a lasting impact for you?
I remember the year of the blizzard, so attendance was low, but the fun and value were high. We had one-on-one networking opportunities and were like children happy to be with their friends regardless of the weather outside!
I also remember when Bruce Levine and Carl June released first CAR-T data – what a ripple went through the room.
What do you expect to see from the industry over the next 20 years?
Consolidation, shared clinical trial learnings, point of care manufacturing, nonviral options proven in the clinic, maturation of analytical tools and I cannot even imagine what genius awaits us coming out of universities.
If you could speak to yourself 20 years ago, what would you say? Would you have any advice or pearls of wisdom to share?
Understand this is a new industry and a winding road of a journey. It will have ups and downs and brilliant discoveries. We are all working toward the same goal so competition is not as it is in other industries as we must lean on one another to learn and grow.
And don’t worry about being the only women in the room. Many more will follow!
What would you say to anyone considering attending Phacilitate’s 2024 Advanced Therapies Week?
It is one of the must-attend events of the year. High value meetings, networking and learnings abound. The connections you make at this event are sure to provide insights, opportunities and growth.
Watching the growth of the organization [Phacilitate] has been a privilege. The inclusivity is an industry standard. Thank you for all the hard work and growing with the industry, staying on top of trends and incorporating feedback!
