Navigating workforce needs in the field of cell and gene therapy: results of workforce survey performed by the ISCT early-stage professionals committee

Abstract

Background and aim

The workforce landscape in the field of cell and gene therapy (CGT) continues to evolve. As new therapies receive approval and numerous clinical trials are underway, there is an increasing demand to understand training and career development within the CGT sector. The International Society of CGT (ISCT) early-stage professionals (ESP) committee has been conducting workforce surveys to understand the existing skillset of CGT professionals, including ESP, and to highlight critical areas where training programs may be required. Here, we report the findings of these muti-year workforce surveys.

Methods

The survey was designed by ESP committee members and distributed primarily to ISCT members and the Canadian CellCAN network, mainly targeting ESPs (those within 10 years of their final degree or entry into the CGT field). The 2020 and 2021 surveys consisted of 19 questions covering respondents’ educational background, demographics, employment status, employment sector and participation in continuing education. In 2023, the survey was expanded to include an additional 8 qualitative questions focusing on career development opinions and opportunities. The number of respondents was 58 in 2020, 61 in 2021 and 109 in 2023. Trends and summaries of the results over the 3 years are reported here.

Results

Manufacturing and process development were the most common job roles, as well as the most desired skills and the biggest workforce gap in the CGT sector. Over the 3 years, the percentage of respondents in managerial roles increased while those working in a Good Manufacturing Practice environment decreased. On the other hand, the percentage of respondents with an MS degree decreased, while those with a PhD degree showed an overall increase from 2020 to 2021 with a slight decrease in 2023. Finally, participants concluded that the lack of available positions as well as the lack of opportunities or support are the key hindrances in their career development.

Conclusions

Collecting data to evaluate the workforce and training remains an important venture in the CGT field. Our survey showed that manufacturing and process development roles are in great demand, suggesting the need for continued workforce training of this critical need. The trends observed through the survey years also suggest a possible effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the CGT workforce, which may have stabilized since 2023. Overall, our survey shows that there is a need to address the workforce gap while also paying attention to the career development of those aspiring to join the CGT workforce.