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NIIMBL Announced Project Call 9.1 for Biopharmaceuticals

The National Institute for Innovation in Manufacturing Biopharmaceuticals (NIIMBL) is excited to introduce Project Call 9.1, aimed at fostering advancements in the biopharmaceutical sector. With an impressive budget of approximately $8 million dedicated to various technological and workforce development projects, this initiative reflects NIIMBL's commitment to enhancing the domestic biopharmaceutical manufacturing landscape.

Key Details of Project Call 9.1

The deadline for concept submissions is set for September 16, 2025, and it's essential for interested parties to be NIIMBL members to qualify. The project focuses on pioneering platforms and advanced technologies that can cater to a diverse range of products in the biopharmaceutical industry. Four major technical areas have been identified as crucial for the success of Project Call 9.1:

1. Real-Time Monitoring and Advanced Process Analytics
This involves improving in-process control through enhanced real-time monitoring systems, ensuring that product quality is maintained during production.

2. Integrated Modeling and Control Strategies
Developing strategies that cohesively link upstream processes (like cell line development) and downstream applications will be vital for improving overall efficiency.

3. Novel Protein Expression Platforms
There is a pressing need for innovative protein expression technologies that can handle complex and next-generation biotherapeutics, which require new approaches for effective development.

4. Digital Automation for Enhanced Scalability
With advancements in digital and automation technologies, the aim is to bolster downstream development, especially in terms of filtration processes.

5. AI and Machine Learning in Process Optimization
Harnessing the power of AI and ML is essential to improve biopharmaceutical modeling and optimization processes, allowing for more adept responses to production challenges.

Workforce Development Goals

Beyond technical innovation, NIIMBL emphasizes the importance of workforce development within the biopharmaceutical industry. To this end, submissions focusing on workforce issues should address the following:

• - Stimulating Interest in Biopharma Careers: It’s crucial to cultivate enthusiasm among potential future workers about careers in biopharma manufacturing.
• - Accelerating Career Advancement: Developing pathways for current professionals to enhance their careers and leadership skills in the industry.
• - AI-Ready Workforce: Preparing the existing workforce to embrace AI technologies as they become increasingly integral to biopharma manufacturing.
• - Low-Cost Education for Manufacturing: Initiatives aimed at making biopharmaceutical education more affordable and accessible.
• - Cross-Regional Partnerships: Building collaborations that span different regions to enhance workforce development initiatives.
• - Developing Future Workforce Pathways: Establishing clear pathways for individuals from various sectors into biopharma manufacturing careers.

Collaborative Opportunities

NIIMBL Project Calls present a unique opportunity for stakeholders, including companies, academic institutions, and non-profits, to create impactful collaborations addressing pressing challenges in the biopharmaceutical field. These collaborations will play a significant role in enhancing patient access to crucial therapies and strengthening the competitive stance of the U.S. biopharmaceutical industry on the global stage.

“Project Calls are vital in promoting American ingenuity and competitiveness while accelerating the adoption of innovative technologies,” stated Sandeep Kedia, NIIMBL Senior Technology Fellow and Program Leader for the project call.

Stakeholders interested in participating are encouraged to visit the Project Call 9.1 webpage for comprehensive details regarding the request for proposals (RFPs), timelines, and additional crucial information.

For more information about membership and to learn more about NIIMBL, please visit their official site at NIIMBL.org.

About NIIMBL

Established as a public-private partnership, the National Institute for Innovation in Manufacturing Biopharmaceuticals is dedicated to facilitating biopharmaceutical innovations, developing manufacturing standards, and fostering an exceptional workforce ready to lead in the biopharmaceutical domain. NIIMBL operates as part of the Manufacturing USA network, receiving its funding through a cooperative agreement with the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) under the U.S. Department of Commerce, alongside significant contributions from its members.