Jason Hunt
My name is Jason Hunt and I am originally from Clonakilty, Co. Cork. I have always been interested in bioprocessing and have a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology. I am currently undergoing an MSc in Cell Manufacturing and Therapy at the National University of Ireland Galway (NUIG). I started the course last September and have been doing it from home since lockdown. I enjoyed learning about the various cell therapies currently in development, including a lot of the work being carried out at the Regenerative Medicine Institute (REMDI) based in NUI Galway. One of the talks I was most interested in was automated platforms for cell manufacturing given by Prof. Murphy where I first stumbled across AutoCRAT. I was really interested in the project and was immediately drawn to the work that was being carried out. A little while later, a PhD opportunity became available in Prof. Murphy’s lab working on this project which I quickly applied for. I have recently joined the AutoCRAT as part of placement for my course and plan to continue working on this project as PhD student once the summer ends.
Currently, my work involves monitoring the differentiation of iPSCs into iMSCs using PCR. The ultimate goal of this project is to characterize the differentiation process which will then be used to develop an in-line qPCR assay. This will allow us to monitor the differentiation process from iPSCs to iMSCs within the automated platform which will help to ensure the production of a consistent product while also ensuring any mistakes in the process are detected early. Fortunately, my time in the lab has not been too limited. I have always been able to use the lab when needed. Although my interactions with other members of REMEDI have been limited due to Covid restrictions, I am sure I will be able to become more acquainted with my fellow colleagues once lockdown restrictions ease.
Aside from college, the rest of my time is largely taken up by staying active in the gym. While this has primarily been replaced with walking since the lockdown began. However, I hope to get back into being more active as the restrictions ease and the gyms reopen.
