The Member Spotlight is an ongoing Q&A series focused on getting to know the CASSS community. Today’s spotlight shines on Babu Kunnel, Executive Director & Head, Antibody Analytical Sciences at Arcus Biosciences.
Babu became a CASSS Associate Director in 2023 and is a Committee Member for WCBP. Babu has attended and presented in CASSS meetings throughout the years, including CMC North America and WCBP.
Q. What was your motivation to volunteer with CASSS?
CASSS is the single most influential scientific organization which brings biopharmaceutical industry and worldwide regulatory agencies together to share the latest developments, understand common challenges, and evaluate pathways to resolve the issues. Personally, for me, volunteering for CASSS provides an opportunity to share my own experience and learn from industry and regulatory agency leaders.
Q. What do you do to relax? Do you have any hobbies?
I am a part of percussion group which specializes in South Indian Classical drums, chenda. Before learning to play chenda, I was a kayaking enthusiast!
Q. What's your favorite type of food or special dish you cook? Why?
Me and my family enjoy cooking. We cook traditional Indian (North and South) dishes as well as Italian, Mexican, Chinese and Thai! My favorite dish is fish!!
Q. What is your favorite movie, tv show, music, or book?
I like action movies and late-night comedy shows. Bourne movie series, to name one!
Q. What famous person (dead or alive) would you choose to have dinner with? Why?
Anthony Bourdain. His travel documentaries exploring international culture, people, and cuisine were outstanding!
Q. What’s your favorite travel experience?
My family and I love exploring new places. The most memorable one among all was a trip to Hawaii.
Q. What would people be surprised to know about you?
I could make caricatures.
Q. How did you get inspired to go into science/biotech/pharma industry?
I always had an interest in life science. I just followed my instinct.
Q. If you did anything other than your current occupation, what would it be?
Hard to say! Maybe a chef, maybe a handyman!