Breakthroughs in Cancer Immunotherapy and Drug Delivery
Mitchell’s innovative research is driving advances in cancer immunotherapy, especially for multiple myeloma and autoimmune-associated tumors. Among his breakthroughs is the design of a polymer-based “suit of armor” for CAR T cells—a biodegradable coating that reduces inflammatory side effects while allowing CAR T cells to gradually regain their full cancer-fighting capabilities.
As co-founder of Liberate Bio, a biotech startup focused on non-viral gene delivery technologies, Mitchell is translating cutting-edge research into therapies with real-world impact. His work exemplifies a new generation of bioengineers who combine scientific rigor with entrepreneurial spirit.
Early Curiosity and Engineering Mindset
Born in Brooklyn, New York, Mitchell grew up fascinated by how systems work. As a child, he was obsessed with trains, cars, and planes. “My mom and dad would spend hours with my brother and me riding the subway across New York City for fun,” he recalls. “We were fascinated by how cities were connected. Looking back, those experiences laid the early foundation for my career in engineering—I was always interested in how things work and how systems fit together.”
Academic Turning Point
Mitchell began his academic journey at Stevens Institute of Technology in New Jersey, initially planning a straightforward path into electrical engineering. But after a spontaneous decision to take a biotransport class with Professor Woo Lee, his trajectory shifted. “That course opened my eyes to the excitement of biology paired with engineering. It made me realize how much I loved working at the interface of disciplines.” Inspired, he switched his major to biomedical engineering, worked in Lee’s lab, and found his passion.
Mentorship and Scientific Foundations
He went on to earn his Ph.D. in Bioengineering from Cornell University, under the guidance of Professor Michael King, where he explored drug delivery and biomaterials. Mitchell credits Dr. King with shaping his academic path. It was also at Cornell where he met his wife, Professor Karin Wang – then a fellow Ph.D. student and now a bioengineering professor at Temple University. Today, the couple collaborate on multiple cancer research projects. “Mike and his wife, Cindy, are both professors and were incredible role models for Karin and me.”
His postdoctoral training took place at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) with Professors Robert Langer, where he focused on nanomedicine and gene therapy. Mitchell describes Bob Langer as a huge influence on his career. “Bob is someone who never gives up on his hopes and dreams and is always there for whatever his students and postdocs need.”
Leading at Penn and Translating Research to Impact
Now a tenured faculty member in the Department of Bioengineering at the University of Pennsylvania, Mitchell leads an interdisciplinary research team developing next-generation drug delivery systems for gene therapy, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and regenerative medicine. In addition to the Kabiller Rising Star Award, his work has been recognized with the NIH Director’s New Innovator Award, NSF CAREER Award, Burroughs Wellcome Fund Career Award at the Scientific Interface, and the Society for Biomaterials Young Investigator Award, among others.
Life at Home and Beyond the Lab
In May 2025, Mitchell and Wang celebrated the birth of their first child, Olivia Grace Mitchell, marking a new chapter in their lives. The family lives in Philadelphia, balancing two vibrant scientific careers with the joys of parenthood.
Outside of the lab, Mitchell remains a diehard New York sports fan—a loyal supporter of the Knicks, Yankees, Rangers, and Jets. “I’m still recovering from the Knicks’ heartbreaking playoff loss,” he admits, “but I’m hopeful about next season.” He also loves international travel and exploring new restaurants—a passion that echoes his global approach to research and collaboration.
A Rising Star in Biomedical Engineering
Professor Mitchell’s journey—from childhood subway rides to the forefront of nanomedicine—is a story of curiosity, persistence, and inspiration. Guided by supportive parents and mentors, a passion for systems thinking, and a commitment to improving human health, he stands out as a true rising star. With his collaborative spirit and vision, Michael J. Mitchell is poised to make a lasting impact on biomedical engineering and beyond.
The 2025 Kabiller Rising Star Award honors Professor Michael J. Mitchell for his trailblazing work engineering lipid nanoparticle platforms that deliver mRNA with high precision to targeted cells, tissues, and organs—including the liver, heart, brain, placental and fetal tissues, and immune cells such as T cells