Jim Devlin Email & Phone Number

Spring House, Pennsylvania, United States

Developing and validating assays for the detection of neutralizing antibodies in large molecule / biologics clinical trials.

I'm researching the drivers of regulation of gene expression in humans at baseline and in response to various stimulations. With much experience in the genomics aspect of gene expression, the lab I work in is moving toward how the RNA gives rise to the protein phenotype. We are interested in determining the profile of the proteome in our cells and how this relates to our RNA expression data.

Developed, validated, and executed various pharmacogenomic assays in clinical and pre-clinical settings. Optimized assays in a near GLP framework to ensure quality data reporting to clinical teams for decision point consideration. Described methods, validation results, and clinical data in officially reviewed and archived reports. Helped introduce new methods and systems into the laboratory to improve productivity and widen scope. Implemented the BioRobot Universal for automated RNA extraction from PAXgene whole blood in 96-well format, evaluated new CYP2D6 copy number assay, refined/developed method for RNA extraction from sputum. Contributed to lab progress and efficiency by following through on my own, and accepting new, responsibilities. Presented results at regular Clinical Translational Medicine departmental meetings, worked in concert with other clinical scientists to expedite clinical data reporting (e.g. Immunoassays transition, Discovery Translational Medicine collaboration), assumed share of clerical lab duties.

Investigated the causes and patterns of natural variation in gene expression in human CEPH families. Specifically, performed genotyping of 30-family DNA set which enabled association studies and ultimately mapping of many heritable expression control elements. Examined the effects of glucose and insulin on gene expression in EBV-transformed lymphoblastoid cell lines. Specifically, performed cell culture exposures, RNA purification, and microarray procedure which produced evidence for some stimulant-regulated genes. Determined relative contribution of alleles to gene expression within heterozygotes. Specifically, carried out cell culture, RNA purification, and innovative applications of Taqman genotyping and SNP genotyping microarrays for calculation of "allelic ratio" within heterozygotes. Differential allelic expression was observed for several genes.

Performed gene-knockouts on two pathogens for gene-essentiality. Specifically, used bacterial transformation for replacement of a given gene with an antibiotic resistance marker which, upon culture, identified genes essential for survival. This information was used in the anti-infectives pipeline as putative drug targets.

Formulated lab-batches of liquid antacid to make an anti-microbially robust yet flavorsome product. Modified levels of flavors and preservatives to create a formula resistant to growth of the five US Pharmacopeia organisms while preserving pleasant taste. These lab batches often progressed to inter-company taste tests and large scale batch production.

Ms, Biotechnology

Bs, Biology