CABP Interview November 2023: Suzanne Thibodeaux, MD, PhD, CABP(H)

What is your name, where are you from, what do you do - tell us a bit about yourself?

My name is Suzie Thibodeaux, and I am an associate professor in the Department of Pathology and Immunology at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, MO. I am the medical and laboratory director of the Clinical Cellular Therapy Laboratory at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and recently became the medical director of apheresis there as well.

What first attracted you to biotherapies?

As soon as I learned that biotherapies existed, I knew I wanted to be a part of that world. I have always been fascinated by how cells of the immune system keep us alive and thriving against the unending deluge of foreign organisms and mutated cells. Contributing to providing safe, effective biotherapies to patients continues to bring me joy as I have continued on my career in blood and biotherapies.

How did you first get involved with AABB?

I first got involved in AABB when I joined as a member as soon as I decided I would pursue a career in blood and biotherapies. My first real interaction with AABB was in the form of the professional engagement program, suggested by one of my mentors in transfusion medicine, and I participated in the mentorship program as a mentee. I still share today how formative that experience was and still is, since my mentors then are very much still my mentors now!

"The CABP certification is a way to communicate that foundational knowledge via a shared language in the form of that designation."

Why was it important to you to pursue the CABP certification?

I think it is important to be able to show in concrete ways that one possesses the skills and knowledge to excel in their role. The CABP certification is a way to communicate that foundational knowledge via a shared language in the form of that designation.

How can the CABP program help address some of the current challenges in the biotherapies field?

I am very passionate about ensuring those who participate in clinical cellular therapy that is administered to patients be competent and confident in their abilities.

The CABP program can help address some of the current challenges in a few ways. It offers a clear path to show that foundational knowledge in biotherapies has been acquired and can be applied to current practices. It provides a common mechanism by which professionals in the field can communicate that they have achieved a certain level of knowledge.

"I would encourage all professionals who work in the biotherapy realm, directly or indirectly, to consider working towards the certification."

What other types of professionals do you think should consider registering for the CABP exam and why?

I would encourage all professionals who work in the biotherapy realm, directly or indirectly, to consider working towards the certification. Anyone who is connected to biotherapies stands to benefit.

What are you most excited to work on in the next year?

I am very excited to continue to do my part to advance biotherapies by way of inquiry with respect to clinical service, educational activities, and academic pursuits. Asking questions leads us to new and exciting adventures in biotherapies!

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Becoming a CABP is a mark of distinction, establishing that qualified professionals have demonstrated – through a certification exam – that they have the necessary knowledge to credibly practice in the field of biotherapies.

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