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ISCT Academy of Training and Development: A New Era in Global Education

The International Society for Cell & Gene Therapy (ISCT) has unveiled a transformative shift in its approach to workforce development and education with the rebranding of its training initiative as the Academy of Training and Development. This change is not merely cosmetic; it signifies a deep commitment to enriching the educational landscape within the cell and gene therapy (CGT) arena.

Originally launched in 2023, the program has witnessed remarkable growth and expansion. The CEO of ISCT, Queenie Jang, emphasizes that this transition moves beyond the conventional idea of an educational institute. “The new name better encapsulates the scale, prestige, and global impact of our program,” she states. Jang also highlights the essential contributions of the program's esteemed faculty, whose expertise is fundamental to the breadth of offerings available.

In a landmark achievement, ISCT secured accreditation from the ANSI National Accreditation Board in 2024, marking it as the first organization in the CGT sector to receive such recognition for excellence in training. This milestone reinforces the credibility and quality of the Academy’s educational programs, establishing them as benchmarks aligned with internationally recognized standards.

Daniel J. Weiss, the ISCT President, articulates that this accreditation not only validates the efforts put into this program but also reaffirms their dedication to providing high-quality, globally acknowledged education that meets the evolving needs of the CGT workforce.

A significant factor propelling this evolution is the growing international presence of the Academy. Guided by global and regional advisory boards, ISCT has been actively delivering tailored educational content across North America, Europe, and Asia. This approach has ensured that training programs cater to the distinct needs and perspectives of various regions while maintaining a broad relevance on the global stage.

Expansion of Educational Offerings

Furthermore, the Academy is broadening its educational portfolio with the introduction of the ISCT Clinical Pillar. This initiative opens new avenues for clinicians eager to receive specialized training in the rapidly evolving CGT field. Notably, the inaugural ISCT CGT Clinical Applications Program for Fellows took place at the prestigious University of Pennsylvania in October 2026, uniting clinical leaders and faculty for an immersive experience focused on the clinical.

Jaap Jan Boelens, ISCT's Chief Medical Officer, expresses that this new program symbolizes a significant advancement in their educational mission. By linking fellows with top-tier experts alongside practical clinical experiences, ISCT aims to prepare an upcoming generation of clinicians who are well-equipped to implement cutting-edge therapies in both urban academic centers and regional healthcare hubs.

As the Academy of Training and Development progresses, its focus remains on enhancing access to high-quality accredited educational programs and professional development opportunities. This is crucial to nurturing the workforce that will drive the future of life-transforming cell and gene therapies.

In conclusion, the ISCT Academy of Training and Development marks a pivotal step in addressing the urgent need for skilled professionals in the ever-evolving field of cell and gene therapy. The organization’s commitment to excellence and continuous improvement will ensure that the Academy remains at the forefront of global education, ultimately benefiting patients and the healthcare system alike.