Chris Garbe
Technical Operations Director
Chris joined Gates Institute as the Technical Operations Director in August 2023. In this role, he guides the chemistry, manufacturing, and controls (CMC) strategy and execution to develop internal cell therapy and protein biologics candidates. With over 25 years of experience across academic, start-up, and large pharma environments, Chris has advanced numerous small molecule, recombinant protein, antibody-radionuclide conjugate, and cell and gene therapy candidates through development, leading to first-in-human clinical trials and product commercialization. Prior to joining Gates Institute, Chris established the allogeneic cell therapy group at Umoja Biopharma, led CMC efforts for the small molecule portfolio resulting in the company’s first IND, and directed and operationalized multiple build outs for Umoja’s development laboratories and GMP facility. Prior to Umoja, Chris served in multiple leadership roles across development and quality functions at Gates Biomanufacturing Facility, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, and ZymoGenetics/Bristol Myers Squibb.
Chris earned his BS in Chemistry from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, MS in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from George Washington University, and MBA from University of Texas – Austin.
For relaxation, Chris enjoys the typical Colorado activities including skiing, hiking, camping, and exploring local breweries.