Chris A. Learn, Ph.D., MBA, has established a distinguished career in medical research and clinical development, recognized for his leadership in advancing cell and gene therapy programs on a global scale. As franchise head for cell and gene therapy at Parexel International, he leads the end to end delivery of advanced therapy programs, supporting biotechnology and pharmaceutical partners in the development and execution of complex clinical trials.

Dr. Learn is widely respected for his expertise in oncology, hematology, and next generation therapies, including CAR-T cell therapy, gene editing, and RNA based therapeutics. His work spans Phase I through Phase IV clinical trial design and execution, regulatory strategy, and lifecycle management, ensuring that innovative therapies progress efficiently from early development through commercialization.

Throughout his career, Dr. Learn has played a pivotal role in bringing transformative therapies to patients. He has led the acceptance of three Biological License Applications that received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, contributing to the successful commercialization of advanced cell and gene therapies. His leadership has also supported the rollout of multiple therapies achieving marketing authorization, as well as the advancement of numerous CAR-T programs that are now available treatment options for cancer patients.

Prior to his current role, Dr. Learn held senior leadership positions across leading clinical research organizations, including ICON plc and IQVIA, where he oversaw complex oncology and hematology trials and contributed to the development of more than 25 CAR-T programs. His experience also includes work in academic and research institutions, further strengthening his multidisciplinary approach to clinical development.

Dr. Learn earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology, summa cum laude, from Virginia Tech, a Ph.D. in Microbiology and Immunology from Wake Forest Biomedical Graduate Programs, and a Master of Business Administration from North Carolina State University Poole College of Management. He also holds a Project Management Professional certification from the Project Management Institute and has completed advanced training in good clinical practice and statistics.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Dr. Learn is actively involved in leading industry organizations, including the American Society of Clinical Oncology, the American Society of Hematology, and the American Society of Gene and Cell Therapy. He serves as a board member of the Cory Heidaran Charitable Foundation and volunteers with organizations such as Ronald McDonald House, Habitat for Humanity, Catholic Charities, and Catholic Parish Outreach Food Pantry. He is also a dedicated mentor to biotechnology graduate students at Georgetown University.

His contributions have been recognized through numerous honors, including the With Heart Award from Parexel International, program leadership recognition from Johnson and Johnson, and multiple Mentor of the Year awards. Outside of his professional work, he enjoys gardening and cooking, often drawing inspiration from his family’s diverse cultural background.

Looking ahead, Dr. Learn remains committed to advancing cell and gene therapies worldwide, with a focus on securing resources and fostering collaboration to ensure continued progress in treatment development. Guided by a philosophy that research drives meaningful breakthroughs, he prioritizes patient outcomes while working to expand access to innovative therapies across the globe.