If you’re unsure of your career path but interested in science, medicine, or making a difference, biomanufacturing might be the field you didn’t know you were looking for. Just ask Dr. James Byrne, Assistant Professor of Radiation Oncology and Biomedical Engineering at the University of Iowa, who combines patient care with lab research to bridge the gap between science and real-world impact. Dr. Byrne is what you might call a physician-scientist. He spends part of his week treating cancer patients, and the rest running a lab that pushes boundaries in biomedical research. His work centers around developing technologies that translate from the lab bench to patient care; technologies that could one day improve and even save lives.
One of the most fascinating areas of his research is inspired by an unlikely creature known as the tardigrade. These microscopic animals can survive in extreme environments (including outer space) thanks to a special protein known as the damage suppressor protein. Dr. Byrne and his team are leveraging this natural biology by using mRNA (just like in COVID-19 vaccines) to deliver this protein to human cells. Their goal? To protect healthy tissue from the damaging side effects of radiation therapy without shielding the tumors themselves. And it’s working. In both lab and animal models, the treatment showed significant protection of normal tissues while leaving tumors vulnerable to radiation. “We try to make technologies that are easily translatable,” Byrne says, a philosophy that underscores everything his lab does.
Byrne’s journey into biomanufacturing began unexpectedly. As an undergraduate biomedical engineering student, he was required to participate in research for a class, but quickly fell in love with the field. His early projects involved designing nanoparticles to improve chemotherapy delivery, and the hands-on, real-world impact of the work sparked a passion that shaped his entire career. Eventually, he pursued an MD/PhD to better understand both the science and the clinical need behind translational research.
Today, Byrne’s lab continues to innovate, including a clinical trial in progress for a gel-like injection made from Xanthan gum, the same ingredient found in everyday syrups. This injectable helps oxygenate tumors, making them more responsive to cancer treatments. For students wondering what biomanufacturing actually looks like in practice, Byrne offers a snapshot into his own career: every day is different. Some days involve writing protocols or designing experiments. Others are spent working with cells, mice, or cutting-edge tools like 3D printers and laser cutters to prototype new devices. His lab even features a fabrication space to build whatever they need to test a new idea.
But the most important advice he gives to students is simple: just ask. “Getting involved is the key,” Byrne says. “There are so many labs at the University of Iowa doing amazing work, and most researchers are happy to bring in curious undergrads. Don’t be afraid to reach out—even if some people say no, someone will say yes.”
One thing Dr. Byrne wishes more people knew about biomanufacturing is that at its core, it's about helping others. “Every lab, every researcher involved in biomanufacturing is trying to help,” he emphasizes. Whether it’s identifying new therapeutic targets or creating technologies for real-world application, the goal is always to improve lives. Byrne hopes more people can understand that biomanufacturing is driven by good intentions, and it’s a field full of people committed to doing meaningful work.
Dr. Byrne’s story is a powerful example of how biomanufacturing is more than just a buzzword. It’s a pathway where science, creativity, and compassion come together to solve real problems, and it all starts with a single step into a lab.
The above story was written by Unviersity of Iowa School of Journalism and Mass Communication student Karsyn Tielbur as part of the Chemurgy 2.0 project. Through Chemurgy 2.0, students in the Content Marketing class were tasked to make the field more visible, relatable, and exciting. The goal was to spark student interest and ultimately help retain emerging talent in Iowa after graduation. Learn more about their work here.