Nabiha Saklayen: From Physics to Scalable Cell Therapies

What does it actually take to manufacture biology at scale?In this episode of Galaxy Balance, Cory Smith sits down with Nabiha Saklayen, CEO and co-founder of Cellino, to explore the future of cell therapy manufacturing. Trained in physics and biophotonics, Nabiha is applying principles from semiconductor fabrication to one of the hardest problems in medicine: turning powerful cell therapies into scalable, reliable products.The conversation dives into the core challenges of iPSC variability, autologous versus allogeneic strategies, and why manufacturing remains the primary bottleneck preventing these therapies from reaching patients. Nabiha explains Cellino’s approach, combining AI, imaging, and laser-based systems to create a closed, automated platform for cell production.They also explore how AI is reshaping biology, how scientists are evolving into computational operators, and what the future lab looks like as automation and intelligence converge. From Artemis missions to the arrow of time in reprogramming, this episode connects physics, biology, and the long-term future of engineered life.This is a deep look at the infrastructure layer of biofuturism and what must be true for living medicines to reach the world at scale.00:00 - The importance of curiosity and bold thinking in science and technology00:11 - Nabiha Saklayen’s background and childhood fascination with space02:01 - Her journey through physics, biophysics, and motivations behind her work03:24 - Early influences from diverse cultures and educational choices06:17 - How personal loss shaped her scientific focus on biomedicine08:40 - Insights on Artemis moon mission and space biology innovations12:27 - Inspiring the next generation: fostering curiosity in children14:20 - AI as a tool for biology and the significance of large language models17:03 - The origins of Cellino: applying light-based manufacturing methods20:22 - Cellino’s optical bioprocess and steps toward clinical-scale production22:23 - Addressing variability in iPSC reprogramming and quality control26:32 - Regulatory milestones and FDA collaborations in advanced therapies30:27 - The role of automation and dashboards in scalable cell manufacturing36:52 - Visualizing the process from donor cell to differentiated therapy40:35 - Maintaining sterility and process control in cell banking45:40 - How AI interfaces with robotics and the role of scientists in automated development46:04 - The physics of cell removal using bubbles and laser technology49:20 - How AI and machine learning optimize manufacturing processes and data management54:54 - Advice for students passionate about science and innovation57:19 - Future of human creativity and AI partnership in work and art59:05 - Speculating on the creation or existence of AGI and its first questions1:00:03 - The influence of science fiction on Nabiha’s worldview and recommended books