Cambridge Healthtech Institute’s 9th Annual
Cell Culture and Cell Line Engineering Parts 1 and 2
Upstream Technologies and Strategies to Optimise Process Efficiency
Part 1: 10-11 March 2026, Part 2: 11-12 March 2026
Rapid advances in automation, modelling, and analytics are reshaping how cell lines are developed and how upstream processes are designed and controlled. The Cell Culture and Cell Line Engineering tracks will highlight innovations that span AI-driven cell line selection, multivariate process control, and integration of real-time data with computational models. Speakers will present strategies for optimising glycosylation, managing high-density cultures, and implementing continuous and hybrid systems at scale. Additional sessions will explore how new single-cell, proteomics, and imaging platforms are helping teams align cell engineering with upstream performance goals. This programme brings together upstream scientists, cell line engineers, and digital transformation leaders to explore how today’s platforms are accelerating timelines, improving product quality, and bridging silos across development.
Coverage will include, but is not limited to:
Digital Process Modelling and Control for Upstream Quality
- Autonomous, data-driven approaches for self-optimising upstream bioprocesses
- Design space considerations with MIMO (multiple-input-multiple-output) process design for enhanced process control
- Integration of process monitoring data with ML/AI and computational models to predict and optimise cell culture outcomes
- Modelling and control of upstream process dynamics to improve consistency and scalability
- Moving from single-value acceptance criteria to multivariate, model-informed control strategies
Technology Innovations in Upstream PAT
- Emerging sensor/probe, microfluidic, and automation technologies for PAT
- Sensor/interface systems for challenging attributes (metabolites, viscosity, substrates, etc.)
- Strategies to mitigate saturation issues with high biomass concentrations
Digitisation in Cell Line Development
- AI models for cell line performance prediction
- Digitisation initiatives to span the divide between cell engineering and upstream PD
- Integrating single-cell analysers, proteomics, and image analysis to support CLD workflows
Glycosylation Control
- Analytics and predictive tools for glycoengineering and control of glycosylation profiles
- Gene editing for tailoring host cell glycosylation patterns
- Leveraging upstream process parameters to fine-tune glycosylation
Next-Generation Cell Line Engineering and Selection Strategies
- Acceleration strategies for high-performing cell lines
- Advanced engineering for complex biotherapeutics
- Novel vector design strategies
- Single-cell and omics-based selection tools
Problems and Solutions
- Implementation of and transition to hybrid culture systems
- Implementing perfusion and continuous upstream strategies at scale
- Media design and optimisation for continuous processing
- Strategies for overcoming growth-limiting by-products in cell culture processes
- Upstream/downstream data and process integration
- Use cases of microbial and other novel systems for emerging therapeutic modalities
The deadline for priority consideration is Friday 12 September
All proposals are subject to review by session chairpersons and/or the Scientific Advisory Committee to ensure the overall quality of the conference program. Additionally, as per Cambridge Healthtech Institute policy, a select number of vendors and consultants who provide products and services will be offered opportunities for podium presentation slots based on a variety of Corporate Sponsorships.
Opportunities for Participation: