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Ken Franke's work experience begins with their current position as Vice President of Biologics Development and Manufacturing at Nektar Therapeutics, which they started in December 2021. In this role, they are responsible for overseeing the production of clinical stage products in Nektar's global external manufacturing network, including both drug substance and drug product. Ken also leads the technical support organization for drug substance in Nektar's pilot production capability.

Prior to their current role, Franke worked at Nektar Therapeutics as the Executive Director of External Manufacturing from October 2019 to December 2021. During their time in this role, they were responsible for the production of clinical stage products in Nektar's external manufacturing network and provided technical support for drug substance production in the company's pilot production capability.

Before joining Nektar, Franke held the position of Head of MSAT at Lonza from January 2018 to October 2019.

From June 2016 to January 2018, Franke worked as the Director of Technical Services for External Manufacturing at Shire.

Prior to Shire, Franke served as the Director of Process Development and Technical Operations at Baxalta from March 2011 to June 2016. Ken started at Baxalta's Hayward site and later transitioned to the Thousand Oaks facility. Baxalta separated from Baxter in July 2015.

Before their time at Baxalta, Franke worked at Baxter Healthcare as a Senior Manager of Process Development from September 2008 to March 2011.

Franke's earlier work experience includes roles as the Director of Product Development at Expression Systems LLC from 2006 to 2008, Associate Director at Chiron from 2003 to 2006, Associate Director at Sagres Discovery from 2001 to 2003, Associate Director at Diadexus from 1999 to 2001, and Senior Scientist at Life Technologies from 1998 to 1999.

Ken Franke completed their Bachelor's Degree in Botany/Plant Biology at the University of California, Davis from 1984 to 1989. Ken then pursued their Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Plant Biology at the same university from 1989 to 1995.