Expert Insights: Tom Fletcher on Cell Culture Media, Knowledge-Driven Bioprocessing, and Biopharma 4.0
Pre-event interview series for the 10th Annual CBT Course Series 2025
Host: Virender Singh, Founder of BioPatrika
Guest: Tom Fletcher, FUJIFILM Biosciences
YouTube video link: https://youtu.be/rKY2zqOaxCs
About the CBT Course Series 2025
The Center of Excellence for Biopharmaceutical Technology (COE-CBT) is organizing its annual training event — the 10th Annual CBT Course Series 2025, taking place from 8th–10th December 2025 at IIT Delhi.
This event brings together global experts from academia, industry, and regulatory agencies, offering a platform for hands-on learning and meaningful exchange on the latest developments in biopharmaceutical technology.
✨ Secure your spot now — 10% off till 15th Nov 2025!
📄 Brochure: CBT Brochure 2025
Attendees from industry and academia are welcome to participate.
Interview with Tom Fletcher, FUJIFILM Biosciences
About the Speaker
Tom Fletcher works at FUJIFILM Biosciences, a company specializing in the development and supply of cell culture media for large-scale production of recombinant proteins.
With a strong background in media formulation and optimization, Tom has spent most of his career advancing technologies that enhance bioprocess performance. His recent work focuses on improving liquid media preparation from powder, a key step in ensuring consistency and efficiency in biopharmaceutical manufacturing.
Having been with FUJIFILM Biosciences for many years, Tom brings deep expertise, hands-on experience, and a strong commitment to bridging scientific understanding with practical application in cell culture processes.
YouTube video link: https://youtu.be/rKY2zqOaxCs
Virender Singh: What inspired you to be part of the 10th Annual CBT Course Series 2025, and what aspects of this event are you most looking forward to?
Tom Fletcher: I first heard about it through, I guess it was an email, and I was immediately attracted. I’ve been to India twice before and visited many of the bioprocess customers that we have or different companies in India. I know of Prof. Anurag Rathore, and though I don’t think I’ve met him in person, I know of his reputation.
When I saw there was an opportunity, I was immediately interested because I think this is an opportunity to engage with the best and the brightest in the industry. We are very interested in supporting the industry in India. So it wasn’t a difficult decision. I thought this would be a very interesting opportunity for myself and for our business.
Virender Singh: The CBT Course Series brings together experts from academia, industry, and regulation. What unique perspective or topic will you be contributing to this year’s discussions?
Tom Fletcher: I will be talking in almost all of the talks—I believe I have four different sessions—but they will all be related to cell culture media. In the beginning, that might sound like a fairly mundane or boring subject, but I’m determined to make it interesting because it plays a very important role in the bioprocess.
We’ve been progressing the technology of cell culture media over the years. So I will provide some updates on the latest technologies, opportunities, and approaches to achieving better processes through the modification of cell culture media.
Virender Singh: How do you think events like the CBT Course Series help bridge the gap between scientific research and real-world biopharma applications?
Tom Fletcher: That’s a great question. One of the things that attracts me here is, as you mentioned, we have a mix of not only people but of topics. I believe this is the way to progress the industry—by listening and respecting what’s happening in the academic labs.
Personally, I’m very interested, especially in the age of data science. There are so many tools that we can use to get to the processes we need faster, and not only faster, but with a deeper understanding.
I’ll talk a lot about rational approaches, which I strongly believe are superior to random approaches. You can screen a lot of ideas and pick the winners—and sometimes that works—but when you can gain knowledge as a result of your efforts, that’s so much more valuable.
I credit the academic side for bringing us tools to increase our knowledge. Regardless of how good the process is, the knowledge you gain is itself a very valuable asset.
Virender Singh: This year’s theme covers Biopharma 4.0, advanced manufacturing, and regulatory frameworks. Why do you think these topics are especially important right now?
Tom Fletcher: That relates a little bit to what I was just saying about new tools of data science and automation, which are part of Biopharma 4.0. These represent the future of the industry. We have much more leverage to improve and develop better processes thanks to these tools.
I’m actually somewhat of a skeptic, though, because I hear these terms used as if they’re magical—like artificial intelligence, AI. When people start talking about that, I listen closely: do they really understand the appropriate use of these tools?
In some cases, it promotes lazy science. People think, ‘My computer will just tell me what I need to do,’ and I don’t support that approach. It’s a combination of good science, thoughtful design of experiments, and smart use of new tools.
We must also digest what we learn and respect the knowledge we generate. I always encourage younger scientists to spend time with their data—it’s often telling you more than what you’re looking for. There’s so much you can learn by studying the nuances.
Virender Singh: What message or advice would you like to share with young researchers and professionals planning to attend or considering future editions of the CBT Course Series?
Tom Fletcher: Stay in the lectures, take notes, and don’t miss any sessions—there are so many interesting topics and experts from around the world. I expect to learn a tremendous amount myself by participating in this conference.
Spend time meeting people and asking questions. This is a rich opportunity to engage with leading experts and gain knowledge. You might not think of all your questions during the sessions, but just making contact with someone gives you a chance to follow up later.
Personally, I’m a bit shy, but I’ve gained so much at conferences—even during meals and breaks—by just meeting people and listening. When you get the chance, ask questions and stay engaged. Networking and interaction are where much of the real learning happens.
Closing Note
Thank you, Tom, for sharing your insights and enthusiasm ahead of the CBT Course Series 2025. Your perspective on knowledge-driven bioprocessing, data science, and the thoughtful use of emerging technologies will certainly inspire participants.
We look forward to your sessions at IIT Delhi this December!
📅 Event Dates: December 8–10, 2025
📍 Venue: IIT Delhi
✨ Register now and get 10% off till 15th November 2025!
🔗 CBT Brochure 2025
Also check: CBT Course 2025 – Expert Insights: Dr. Narendra Chirmule
CBT Course 2025 – Expert Insights: Prof. Anurag Rathore IIT Delhi
CBT Course 2025 – Expert Insights: Sanjay Shah | XenPharm Services
