Jennifer MacDonald | June 11, 2024 - 1:45 PM
Building the U.S. Bioeconomy
The focus is on addressing historical challenges within this industry, including issues of cost, consistency, and scalability. The proposed technology strategy aims to tackle these challenges by adapting processes to scalable equipment, integrating automation to reduce variability and enable distributed manufacturing, closing processes to mitigate contamination risks and drive down costs, and establishing rigorous quality control specifications. Additionally, the presentation emphasizes the importance of identifying and closing technology gaps through targeted development projects. The introduction of the SMAC Manufacturing concept (Scalable, Modular, Automated, and Closed) as the foundation for the Tissue Foundry prototype highlights the transition to a more efficient and adaptable manufacturing system. The presentation underscores the need for interdisciplinary collaboration to address manufacturing capability gaps and the critical role of quality control specifications in ensuring product efficacy through robust characterization and advanced data analytics.
Biography
Jennifer MacDonald, MD, is the Chief Operating Officer at the Advanced Regenerative Manufacturing Institute, leveraging her background as a practicing Family Medicine physician and extensive experience in healthcare leadership to drive innovation in regenerative medicine. Formerly serving as Chief Consultant to the Principal Deputy Under Secretary for Health, she led the successful implementation of the VHA MISSION Act, showcasing her commitment to advancing patient care within the Veterans Health Administration. As a U.S. Army Veteran with 11 years of service, including deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Dr. MacDonald's dedication to patient, family, and provider empowerment is unwavering. Her career spans roles as a practicing physician, White House Fellow, and advisor to the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, underscoring her commitment to excellence in healthcare. Completing her medical training at the University of Minnesota Medical School and her Family Medicine residency at UCLA, Dr. MacDonald continues to drive healthcare innovation and improve patient outcomes in her pursuit of excellence in regenerative medicine.
