Summary
Overview
Work history
Education
Skills
Languages
Reference
Timeline
Generic

Shakanna Muruganandan

Harrow

Summary

Experienced and versatile Senior Analytical Scientist with over 5 years’ experience in analytical development within the gene and cell therapy space. Extensive expertise in assay development, method qualification, and CMC analytical support, with hands-on skills in PCR, ELISA, flow cytometry, and physicochemical characterization (DLS, NTA). Familiar with digital PCR (ddPCR) methodologies and expanding technical capabilities in this area. Proven ability to lead projects independently and collaborate across CMC teams and external vendors. Adept at technical report writing, SOP creation, and tech transfer to GMP laboratories. Passionate about contributing to the advancement of curative therapies for rare diseases.

Overview

8
8
years of professional experience

Work history

Senior scientific analyst

Virocell
London
01.2024 - Current
  • Designed and executed customized assays aligned with client specifications under tight timelines.
  • Cross-trainer/Reviewer for tech transfer of assays to QC team for GMP.
  • Led report generation and data interpretation for internal and external stakeholders.
  • Trained junior staff and enhanced workflow efficiency through lab strategy optimization.
  • Applied statistical tools for data analysis and supported transition planning toward ddPCR implementation.
  • Implemented safety protocols in lab settings, reducing potential risks.
  • Facilitated training programmes, enhancing staff skills and knowledge.

CMC Analytical Scientist

Vaccitech
Oxford
07.2022 - 12.2023
  • Managed CMC analytical activities, including assay development, qualifications,validation, and DOE implementation.
  • Performed/Trained ELISA, HPLC, DLS, Nanosight, and cell-based assays for release and stability testing.
  • Reviewed and authored SOPs and technical documents in compliance with GMP standards.
  • Led analytical tech transfer to CROs/CMOs and collaborated across functional teams for IND submissions.
  • Supported projects requiring cellular heterogeneity analysis, with familiarity in workflows underpinning single-cell analysis and ddPCR approaches
  • Created spreadsheets and other forms of documentation to accurately record and calculate analytical results.

Quality Control Scientist

Vaccitech
Oxford
11.2019 - Current
  • Experience in handling genetically modified organisms e.g. viral vectors e.g. Adenovirus, Modified Vaccinia Ankara.
  • Conducted routine testing and qualification of viral vectors and cellular therapies.
  • Performed molecular assays (PCR, qPCR), protein quantification, microscopy, and flow cytometry.
  • Supported method transfer and qualification for critical assays including PicoGreen and NTA.
  • Ensured compliance with safety regulations through COSHH documentation and lab audits.

Research Scientist

Oxford Biomedica
Oxford
11.2017 - 11.2019

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  • Led multiple concurrent projects focused on ocular and neurological gene therapy.
  • Developed and executed molecular and cellular biology protocols, including cloning and RT-qPCR.
  • Carried out protein biochemistry techniques such as ELISA and Western Blotting.
  • Maintained GMP standards and presented findings in internal and external meetings

Education

M.Sc. - Neuroscience

Kings College London Denmark hill
London
2016

Bachelor of Science - Biomedical Science

Roehampton University
London
2015

Skills

  • Analytical method development & qualification
  • Lentiviral vector and cell therapy analytics
  • Assay development (PCR, ELISA, cell-based, protein-based)
  • CMC support for gene therapy products
  • Tech transfer & external vendor collaboration
  • Flow cytometry, SDS-PAGE, DLS, NTA
  • Familiar with ddPCR applications and data interpretation
  • Regulatory awareness (FDA, EMA, ICH guidelines)
  • Strong technical writing & documentation (SOPs, reports, INDs)

Languages

Fluent in German, Tamil and English

Reference

Provided upon request

Timeline

Senior scientific analyst

Virocell
01.2024 - Current

CMC Analytical Scientist

Vaccitech
07.2022 - 12.2023

Quality Control Scientist

Vaccitech
11.2019 - Current

Research Scientist

Oxford Biomedica
11.2017 - 11.2019

M.Sc. - Neuroscience

Kings College London Denmark hill

Bachelor of Science - Biomedical Science

Roehampton University
Shakanna Muruganandan