Gates Institute Names Michael Swabowski as Director of Operations for Gates Biomanufacturing Facility

The Gates Institute has appointed Michael Swabowski as its new director of operations for the Gates Biomanufacturing Facility (GBF). Swabowski brings more than two decades of experience leading quality and manufacturing operations across the biologics, gene therapy, and pharmaceutical industries.

Most recently, Swabowski served as senior director of manufacturing at AGC Biologics in Colorado, where he led large-scale biologics manufacturing operations. Prior to that, he held several leadership roles at AGC Biologics and ThermoFisher Scientific, driving operational excellence, compliance, and growth in both quality and manufacturing.

His earlier roles include positions with Mallinckrodt, Sigma-Aldrich, Pfizer, and GE Healthcare. “I'm excited to be part of the GBF because it offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge cell and gene therapy and biologics manufacturing that directly impact patient lives,” says Swabowski. “Being part of GBF's mission to accelerate the development and delivery of advanced therapies aligns with my passion for innovation, operational excellence, and building collaborative, high-performing teams that support translational science from bench to bedside.”

Swabowski holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Illinois at Chicago and carries multiple professional certifications through the American Society for Quality. The addition of Swabowski in the role of director of operations will strengthen operations, improve efficiency, and position the organization for future growth, says Terry Fry, MD, executive director of the Gates Institute. “Mike’s deep experience in quality and operations will be instrumental in helping GBF scale to meet the evolving needs of cell, gene and biologics manufacturing,” says Fry. “His leadership will be a key asset in advancing our mission of delivering next-generation therapies to patients.”

A pillar of Gates Institute at the University of Colorado Anschutz, the GBF supports the development and production of cell- and protein-based therapies, serving academic, industry, and clinical partners in a state-of-the-art GMP environment. Swabowski’s appointment marks a continued investment in operational excellence and leadership as the GBF expands its role in translating breakthrough science into clinical impact.