Getting to know... Rhys Bryant

In this team interview, we get to know MFX's Head of Software and Design Development, Rhys Bryant .

What is your role/what do you do at MFX?

As the Head of Software and Design Development at MFX, I work on the design and development of all aspects of software within the product development team. This includes embedded control software, UI design and the integration of AI tools, ensuring our products meet user requirements while being future-proof. My role is all about?making sure that what we create today remains relevant and effective tomorrow.

Tell us about your background.

I have a degree in Electronic Engineering from Surrey University. After graduating, I worked for a design consultancy, who specialised in highly regulated industries. That experience solidified my passion for software development, particularly in the medical manufacturing sector. I’ve always been driven by the impact on how this medical technology can improve lives. And I believe that’s what motivates my work every day.

You’ve developed and delivered some really interesting products, what are you most proud of?? What has had the biggest impact?

Out of all the projects I’ve worked on, I’m most proud of developing the Beta prototype of MFX research engine platform. It’s a challenging task, given that it is being built from the ground up, but incredibly rewarding. However, the project that had the biggest impact was during the COVID-19 pandemic, where I helped a breathing system manufacturing company meet the surging demand—knowing that our work made a real difference in such a critical time.

What do you enjoy most about working at MFX?

What I love most about working at MFX is the freedom to grow the software team from scratch and the constant learning curve. It’s challenging but equally rewarding. I’m fortunate to be part of a culture where I have the autonomy to work independently, yet there’s always support from colleagues who are eager to help each other improve.

As an engineer relatively new to this space - what excites you about CGT?

As someone new to the Cell and Gene Therapy (CGT) space, I’m particularly excited about the potential for automation. Previously, I didn’t know anything about the CGT field until my sister told me (she studied biomedicine). The idea of integrating invasive procedures and automation into a single product is fascinating—it’s a combination that could revolutionize the field.

What do you see as the biggest challenges cell and gene therapy manufacturing is facing????

One of the biggest challenges in CGT manufacturing, in my opinion, is understanding the precise needs of the field and translating them into real, tangible products. It’s a complex process, but if we can nail that translation, it will be a game-changer.

How are you finding the multidisciplinary nature of bioreactor development - layering biology over engineering is quite a challenge?- what are you learning?

Working on bioreactor development has been a unique learning experience for me as an engineer. I’m delving into how to process cells, the types of environments they need, and the specific cell types involved. It’s a steep learning curve, but it’s also incredibly interesting.

What does the future of cell and gene therapy/cell culture look like to you?

Looking ahead, I’m confident that the future of cell and gene therapy is promising. We’ll see these effective therapies become mainstream, with a lot of new automation and advanced analytics coming into play. However, while these technologies are promising, they’re not yet fully developed for manufacturing, and integrating automation will be the key.

Tell us about other things you do - eg running a marathon, climbing mountains etc

Outside of work, I’m an avid outdoors enthusiast. I enjoy canoe polo a lot. I have been competing both nationally and internationally. When I’m not on the water, I’m walking my dog Poppy, playing guitar, and tackling DIY projects around the house, like renovating the kitchen.?

Tell us about the wider outreach activities for stem you are participating in…. (eg women in stem, race in stem, engineering)

At the moment, I’m not involved in any engineering-specific activities, but until recently I was chair of the local club, where I was involved in organizing and promoting the sport in the local community.

To learn about the people behind MFX and what we're working on, head to our website.

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