Branden is an Associate Professor in the Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology at the University of Minnesota. He is an expert in genome engineering using DNA transposon systems and both TALEN and CRISPR targeted nuclease platforms. Branden’s current research efforts includes a focus on methods of engineering NKs and other immune cells for cell therapies. Branden’s work has led to the initiation of multiple clinical trials, including one deploying CRISPR/Cas9 edited tumor infiltrating lymphocytes for the treatment of gastrointestinal cancer. In addition to his academic work, Branden founded B-MoGen Biotechnologies, Inc., a company focused on developing next generation transposon technology. Branden served as B-MoGen’s chief scientific officer until the company was acquired by Bio-Techne Corporation. Branden holds a Ph.D in Molecular, Cellular, Developmental Biology & Genetics from the University of Minnesota and a BA in Biology, Chemistry and Biomolecular Sciences from Saint Olaf College. Branden conducted a post-doctoral fellowship in David Largaespda’s lab.
