Weiguo Zhai

Weiguo Zhai is a highly experienced professional in the field of biopharmaceutical development, currently serving as Senior Director for R&D Analytical Sciences at AstraZeneca since July 2020. Zhai leads an analytical group focusing on the CMC development and characterization of large biological molecules, with a portfolio that includes notable projects like Tralokinumab and various cell and gene therapy products. Previous roles include Director at Gritstone Oncology, where Zhai contributed to the establishment of a multi-product manufacturing facility, and Associate Director at Dynavax Technologies, leading critical assay developments that facilitated BLA approval for HEPLISAV-B™. Zhai's career also encompasses significant contributions at MedImmune, Novartis, and Chiron Corporation, along with a robust academic background, holding a Ph.D. in Microbiology and Immunology and postdoctoral training at UC Berkeley.