James M. Piret

Biography

  Dr. James M. Piret is a Professor at The University of British Columbia, Vancouver Campus. Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 1989, Sc.D. Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 1986, S.M. Harvard College, 1981, A.B.  

Research Interest

 Many recent developments in biological and medical research have greatly expanded the prospects for regenerative medicine. Cell-based therapies have the potential to provide improved treatments for major diseases such as cancer and diabetes. In collaboration with stem cell researchers (Drs. Eaves, Kieffer and Humphries), we are investigating how to more efficiently optimize therapeutic cell bioprocesses. This includes optimizing the complex cytokine effects on stem cell self-renewal or progenitor differentiation, as well as developing novel analytical technologies (Drs. Hansen and Turner). Mammalian cells are widely used for the production of therapeutic proteins in the biotechnology industry. We are investigating cellular physiology and engineering approaches in order to better understand and accelerate the development of biotechnology production processes. To improve the design and operation of cell culture devices, we perform experimental and mathematical investigations of their hydrodynamic and transport phenomena. The research topics range from engineering cells to bioreactor engineering. Our multi-disciplinary, collaborative research projects and the many advantages of the Vancouver location provide an exceptional research environment. Our lab welcomes highly motivated applicants with demonstrated ability for high-performance graduate or postdoctoral research.