Khalid Parris

With over two decades of experience in cell biology, translational research, and biotechnology entrepreneurship, I have built a career at the intersection of science and business. My expertise spans tissue regeneration, neurobiology, and cancer therapeutics, complemented by an MBA and a Master’s in Biomedical Sciences.

At AmplifyBio, I served as a Senior Scientist leading small teams that characterized client T cell receptor-based cancer therapies. I mentored junior researchers, managed a major technology transfer, and secured critical materials to fulfill client contracts. Earlier, as a Consultant at Outlier, I designed scientific prompts to evaluate AI capabilities in molecular biology, ensuring technical rigor and real-world applicability.

At Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, I optimized CAR T, NK cell, and TIL manufacturing processes for clinical trials, authored translational protocols, and validated critical assays. Concurrently, I completed PhD coursework while working full-time. My role as VP of Research at Rivertown Therapeutics involved elucidating small-molecule mechanisms, competitive analysis, and strategic business planning.

I co-founded Lyganex Bio, where I developed a small-molecule platform for stem cell-mediated tissue renewal, secured top accolades in competitive programs, and pitched to venture capital groups. My tenure as an Analyst at Ohio State’s Technology Entrepreneurship Institute involved commercializing early-stage IP and conducting market analyses for funding decisions.

Earlier, I led biological threat screening for the BioWatch Program under DHS clearance and revolutionized olfactory neuron assays at Firmenich, earning a patent leveraged by the Gates Foundation.

My academic credentials include an MBA in Biotechnology Entrepreneurship and an MS in Biomedical Sciences from The Ohio State University, where I focused on the use of RNA aptamers for cancer-based cell therapies. I have published peer-reviewed articles on CAR T-cell manufacturing, neuroregeneration, and clinical trials, and hold a patent in odorant receptor technology.

At Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, I performed high-throughput processing and analysis of DNA and RNA samples, supporting collaborative projects with leading institutions such as Rockefeller University and Cornell Medical School.

Finally, at GliaMed, I spearheaded pioneering work on regenerative immunophilin ligands (RILs), revealing their critical functions in tissue repair. My investigations into the CD81-EphA5 receptor interaction provided key insights into central nervous system recovery after injury. Additionally, I trained and mentored graduate students and residents from Columbia University’s neuroscience program.

Combining deep scientific expertise with business acumen, I excel at driving innovation from bench to market, fostering collaborations, and translating research into scalable solutions.

My MBA in Biotechnology Entrepreneurship sharpened my ability to turn research into real-world solutions. I know how to spot commercial potential in scientific work—whether it’s evaluating markets, structuring deals, or pitching investors. This background helps me bridge the gap between labs and boardrooms, especially in startups or innovation-driven roles.

My MS in Biomedical Sciences keeps me grounded in the science. I’ve worked hands-on with untranslated RNA-based therapies and cell manufacturing, so I understand the technical hurdles in developing new treatments. This lets me lead R&D teams or optimize processes without losing sight of the bigger picture.

Combined, these degrees mean I can tackle biotech challenges from both angles: the science behind the work and the business behind its impact. Whether it’s guiding a drug to market or enhancing a protocol, I speak both languages fluently.