VANCOUVER, BC, Nov. 2, 2026 /CNW/ -- The International Society for Cell & Gene Therapy (ISCT) is pleased to announce that its Institute of Training & Development will be renamed the ISCT Academy of Training & Development, marking the next phase in the organization's commitment to advancing education and workforce development across the global cell and gene therapy (CGT) sector.

The transition reflects the significant growth and evolution of the program since its launch in 2023. "Since its inception, our training and development program has evolved well beyond an educational institute," said Queenie Jang, BSc (Pharmacy), MBA, CEO of ISCT. "The transition to the ISCT Academy of Training & Development more accurately reflects the scale, prestige, and global reach of what we have built. It also recognizes the exceptional global faculty members whose expertise forms the foundation of every program we offer."

The transition also builds on a significant achievement for the Academy. In 2024, ISCT became the first cell and gene therapy organization to earn accreditation from the ANSI National Accreditation Board for excellence in workforce development and training, demonstrating that its educational programs meet internationally recognized standards. "The accreditation represents a defining milestone that underscores the caliber and credibility the program has achieved in a relatively short period of time," said Daniel J. Weiss, MD, PhD, ISCT President. "It reinforces our commitment to delivering high-quality, globally recognized education that supports the continued growth of the CGT workforce."

A key factor driving the transition has been the Academy's expanding international presence. Guided by its global and regional advisory boards and planning faculties, ISCT has developed and delivered educational programs across North America, Europe, and Asia, drawing on expertise from across the CGT field to ensure that training addresses the unique needs and perspectives of each region while remaining globally applicable and relevant.

The transition also reflects the growth of the Academy's educational portfolio. Through the launch of the ISCT Clinical Pillar, ISCT has expanded opportunities for clinicians seeking specialized training in the rapidly advancing field of CGT, including the inaugural ISCT CGT Clinical Applications Program for Fellows, held at the University of Pennsylvania in October 2026. The program brought together clinical leaders and faculty for an immersive learning experience in the clinical development and application of CGT.

"The launch of the Clinical CGT Applications Program for Fellows represents an exciting milestone for ISCT's educational mission," said Jaap Jan Boelens, MD, PhD, ISCT Chief Medical Officer. "By connecting fellows with leading experts and real-world clinical experience, we are helping prepare the next generation of clinicians who will bring these advanced therapies to patients not only in academic centers but also in regional centers."

As the ISCT Academy of Training & Development enters its next chapter, it will continue to expand access to high-quality accredited education programs and professional development opportunities, supporting the global workforce needed to advance the development and delivery of life-changing cell and gene therapies.

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SOURCE International Society for Cell & Gene Therapy