SQA Quality College

Virtual Courses held 15-26 September 2025

 

Course Descriptions

Please note that individual courses will offer various RQAP Re-registration units, depending on the topic and length of the course. Unit categories include GCP|non-GLP and GLP|non-GCP.

 

Course Category: GEN

GEN 111 — Critical Thinking by Design (one half day, virtual)

Tuesday, 16 September 2025, 10:00 AM - 2:30 PM EDT

 
Registration Rates
  • By 27 August 2025:  Member $400,  Non-member $530,  University/Government $290*,  Student/Outreach Members $185
  • After 27 August 2025:  Member $465,  Non-member $595,  University/Government $355*,  Student/Outreach Members $185
      Register Online
    
RQAP re-registration units: 4 non-GCP | non-GLP
Note: Participants must attend 100% of the training course to receive a certificate of attendance documenting RQAP re-registration units.

Presenter(s)

Tony Jones, Rita Hattemer-Apostel

Description

In an era of growing complexity and information abundance, the role of critical thinking, especially within Quality Assurance (QA), has never been more vital. The ability to think critically is now recognized as a primary determinant of success in the workplace. This heightened importance is underscored by critical thinking's increasing prevalence in industry guidance documents like GAMP and ICH E8. This course, designed for quality professionals and knowledge workers, offers an interactive learning experience. Through group discussions and thought-provoking scenarios, participants will collaboratively refine their thinking skills, cultivate best practices, and forge a shared model for the application of critical thinking in the evolving world of QA and beyond.

Objectives
At the end of the course, participants shall be able to:
  • Apply a straightforward and practical framework for critical thinking, as acquired through interactive exercises, discussions, and idea-sharing with fellow course participants, leading to a fresh perspective on problem-solving
  • Distinguish between appropriate critical thinking approaches, enabling them to effectively address both simple and complex situations with greater confidence and precision.
  • Utilize a diverse array of lenses and tools to enhance critical thinking, using supplied references and resources for analyzing and approaching problems.
Target Audience

All experience-levels of QA (and other) professionals who wish to expand their ability to apply critical thinking to quality and compliance problems.

Agenda 
  1. Session 1: Introduction to Critical Thinking
    • Time and Focus
    • Lenses and Tools
    • A Model for Critical Thinking
  2. Session 2: The Critical Thinking Process
    • Zooming In and Zooming Out
    • Understanding "What's in the Water?" (culture, systems, complexity)
    • Deciding and Acting
    • Useful Lenses and Tools
  3. Session 3: Scenarios to Challenge Thinking
    • Scenario-Based Learning
    • Analyzing Real-World Scenarios
    • Group Discussions
    • Interactive Problem-Solving 
  4. Course Conclusion and Reflection
Level
Basic

GEN 113 — Data Quality/Data Integrity: Can You Trust the State of Your Data? (one half day, virtual)

Wednesday, 17 September 2025, 10:00 AM - 2:30 PM EDT

 
Registration Rates
  • By 27 August 2025:  Member $400,  Non-member $530,  University/Government $290*,  Student/Outreach Members $185
  • After 27 August 2025:  Member $465,  Non-member $595,  University/Government $355*,  Student/Outreach Members $185
        Register Online
 
RQAP re-registration units: 4 GCP | GLP
Note: Participants must attend 100% of the training course to receive a certificate of attendance documenting RQAP re-registration units.

Presenter(s)

Catherine Bens, Cheryl McCarthy, Joe Franchetti

Description

Come talk data quality and data integrity! This class is a reboot of a previous Quality College course highlighting current thinking by reviewing these key components in measuring the reliability, accuracy, and confidence in data. This course will provide the foundation attendees can use to define and apply data quality and data integrity concepts. Practical examples, using select evaluation tools and techniques, will be presented to apply these concepts. Hear how associated industry regulations and the impact of poor data quality and data integrity drive expectations for implementing these concepts and the consequences of not meeting those expectations. As SQA works on developing content aligned with its 2025 ePublication entitled. Data Integrity, The Science, The Regulations, The Use!, come join us for this class that started us along the path helping QA professionals with these important concepts.

Objectives
At the end of the course, participants shall be able to:
  • Define the terms data quality and data integrity
  • Identify what can impact data quality and data integrity
  • Describe methods and tools for evaluating data quality and data integrity
  • Describe the industry expectations for data quality and data integrity
  • Discuss the consequences of poor data quality and data integrity
Target Audience
Research and QA professionals with an interest in broadening their perspective on data quality and data integrity concepts.
  
Agenda

Data Quality/Data Integrity Concepts to be Considered:
  1. Stakeholders
  2. Importance of quality of source data
  3. Federal guidance
  4. Defining the audit trail and data governance in maintaining data integrity
  5. Hard copy vs. electronic data
  6. Using trends and tools for assessing data quality and integrity
  7. Impact of using cloud computing infrastructure
  8. COTS/Internally developed software
  9. Open source tools/data
  10. Electronic data issues
  11. How to assess data quality and data integrity during an audit
  12. The cost of poor data quality and data integrity
Level
Mixed-Level Audience: Data quality/data integrity is important to all and everyone will bring their own experience to course discussion.

GEN 217— Enhancing Efficiency via Change Management (one half day, virtual)

Thursday, 18 September 2025, 10:00 AM - 2:30 PM EDT

 
Registration Rates
  • By 27 August 2025:  Member $400,  Non-member $530,  University/Government $290*,  Student/Outreach Members $185
  • After 27 August 2025:  Member $465,  Non-member $595,  University/Government $355*,  Student/Outreach Members $185
        Register Online
 
RQAP re-registration units: 4 non-GCP | non-GLP
Note: Participants must attend 100% of the training course to receive a certificate of attendance documenting RQAP re-registration units.

Presenter(s)

Mojisola Komolafe, Nene Oche

Description

This concise course offers a foundational understanding of change management, focusing on key theories, strategies, and practices. It equips participants with essential skills to manage and lead change initiatives effectively within organizations. The course includes practical tools to handle resistance, communicate changes, and ensure successful adoption of change.

Objectives
At the end of the course, participants shall be able to:
  • Analyze various change management theories and models.
  • Develop strategic plans for change initiatives.
  • Implement change effectively within an organization.
  • Manage resistance to change, build support, and communicate change effectively to all stakeholders.
  • Measure and sustain the success of change initiatives.
Target Audience
QA/QM Officers and Team Leads
  
Agenda
  • 10:00 AM - 10:05 AM: Welcome and Introductions
    • Course introduction
    • Opening poll / Baseline quiz
  • 10:05 AM - 10:40 AM: Introduction to Change Management
    • Definition and importance of change management
    • Types of change: transformational, incremental, remedial, developmental
    • Role and responsibilities of a change manager
  • 10:40 AM - 11:25 AM: Change Management Theories and Models
    • Overview of fundamental change management models
    • Questions / Discussions
    • Case Study Analysis (15 mins): Analysis of a brief case study on a company using Kotter’s 8-Step Model
  • 11:30 AM - 12:10 PM: Preparing for and Communicating Change
    • Developing a change management plan
    • Crafting key messages and managing stakeholder expectations
    • Breakout Discussion (20 mins): Develop a communication plan for a given change scenario
  • 12:10 PM - 12:40 PM: Implementing Change
    • Leadership styles and their impact on change
    • Building and empowering a change management team
  • 12:40 PM - 1:10 PM: Break
  • 1:15 PM - 2:00 PM: Managing Resistance and Sustaining Change
    • Case Study Analysis (25 mins): General Electric’s two-decade transformation under the leadership of Jack Welch
    • Understanding and addressing resistance to change
    • Techniques for building support and engaging stakeholders
  • 2:00 PM - 2:30 PM: Course Wrap-Up
    • Key takeaways / recap
    • Q & A
    • Closing poll / End of Course quiz
    • Course evaluation and feedback
Level
Intermediate

GEN 115 — A Guide to Conducting Effective Remote Audits (two half days, virtual)

Thursday, 25 September 2025, 10:00 AM - 2:30 PM EDT
Friday, 26 September 2025, 10:00 AM - 2:30 EDT

 
Registration Rates
  • By 27 August 2025:  Member $640, Non-member $800, University/Government $485*, Student/Outreach Members $330
  • After 27 August 2025:  Member $705, Non-member $865, University/Government $550*, Student/Outreach Members $330
        Register Online
 
RQAP re-registration units: 8 GCP | GLP
Note: Participants must attend 100% of the training course to receive a certificate of attendance documenting RQAP re-registration units.

Presenter(s)

Pam Dellea-Giltner, Kamila NovakTina Yanchis-Kirby, Nene Oche, Shane Comiskey

Description

Remote audits gained prevalence out of necessity during the COVID-19 pandemic. They remained after the pandemic ended and gradually have since become a common alternative to onsite audits. The number of approaches and technical solutions grew, and nowadays we can encounter not only remote document sharing and live interviews via videoconferencing but also virtual audit rooms without live interviews. In this course, we will discuss different approaches to and solutions for remote audits, types of remote audits, advantages and limitations, preparation, audit conduct follow-up, pitfalls, best practices, and tips from trainers’ experience. We will use polls, chat interaction, breakout rooms for workshops where the attendees will work on case studies, and provide space to attendees to share their experience and ask questions. Since this Quality College is virtual, it perfectly simulates the situation of remote audits.

Objectives
At the end of the course, participants shall be able to:
  • Decide on what type of audit is the best is different situations.
  • Discuss the pros and cons of remote audits with internal or external customers.
  • Design a fitting risk-based approach for remote audits.
  • Prepare justification of the recommended approach to remote audits.
  • Prepare for, conduct, and report a remote audit perform post-audit follow-up.
Target Audience
Any QA Professional conducting or planning to conduct remote audits.

Suggested Prerequisites/Background Knowledge

Knowledge about conducting audits in general. Basic onsite auditing experience.

Agenda

Day 1

  1. What Is a Remote Audit?
    • Set the stage, align on terminology.
  2. Risk Management in Remote Audits
    • Identifying and mitigating risks unique to remote audits, such as the need for thoughtful preparation, data security, connectivity issues, and incomplete evidence collection.
    • Developing risk-based approaches for deciding between on-site and remote audits.
  3. Data Security and Privacy in Remote Audits
    • Challenges related to the secure exchange of confidential documents and real-time data during remote audits.
    • Technology, tools, and protocols to ensure data security and privacy compliance.
  4. Training and Competency of Auditors
    • The role of soft skills in navigating remote audit challenges.
  5. Cultural Sensitivity and Time Zone Management
    • Adapting to cultural differences and language barriers during remote audits.
    • Strategies for effectively managing scheduling across time zones.
  6. Emerging Trends and Future of Remote Auditing
    • Impact of advancements in AI, machine learning, and virtual reality on remote audit practices.
    • Insights into hybrid audit models combining on-site and remote elements.
  7. Emerging Trends and Future of Remote Auditing
    • Impact of advancements in AI, machine learning, and virtual reality on remote audit practices.
    • Insights into hybrid audit models combining on-site and remote elements.
  8. Auditee Preparation for Remote Audits
    • Guidance for organizations preparing to be audited remotely, including document organization and infrastructure readiness.
    • Managing auditee concerns about confidentiality, transparency, and process control.
  9. Remote Audit Tools
    • Commonly used platforms (e.g., Microsoft Teams, Zoom, specialized audit software) and their functionalities in audit settings.
    • Shared workspace (e.g., Box, SharePoint, other portals).

Day 2

Breakout rooms
  1. Case Studies
    • Illustrating practical strategies for conducting effective and compliant remote audits, including planning, communication, technology use, and follow-up actions.
    • Highlighting real-world challenges and solutions encountered during remote audits, helping auditors and auditees understand how to navigate risks, maintain data integrity, and ensure audit objectives are met without physical presence.
  2. Role-Play Scenarios
    • Challenges related to the secure exchange of confidential documents and real-time data during remote audits.
    • Engaging participants by assigning roles (auditor, auditee, observer) to simulate remote audit challenges and solutions.
Joint Discussion
  • Audience experience, challenges and solutions, questions and concerns.
  • Discussion with trainers who share their insights and best practices.
Level
Mixed-Level Audience: Anyone conducting or planning to conduct remote audits can attend
 

Course Category: GCP

GCP 104 — The Risk of Misconduct and Fraud in Clinical Research: Understanding the Consequences (one half day, virtual)

Friday, 19 September 2025, 10:00 AM - 2:30 PM EDT

 
Registration Rates
  • By 27 August 2025:  Member $400,  Non-member $530,  University/Government $290*,  Student/Outreach Members $185
  • After 27 August 2025:  Member $465,  Non-member $595,  University/Government $355*, Student/Outreach Members $185
        Register Online
 
RQAP re-registration units: 4 GCP | non-GLP
Note: Participants must attend 100% of the training course to receive a certificate of attendance documenting RQAP re-registration units.

Presenter(s)

Bernadette Bowen, Leslie Paul, Dawn Niccum

Description

This course will provide beginner and experienced QA professionals with techniques and tools to incorporate into how they detect and investigate suspected fraud and/or misconduct. Breakout sessions will be used to develop skills needed to detect suspected fraud and/or misconduct. This course will include training regarding the regulatory requirements, including reporting cases. The end of the course will include a Q&A session with a panel of GCP experts.

Objectives
At the end of the course, participants shall be able to:
  • Discuss the impact of suspected fraud and misconduct in clinical research
  • Identify suspected fraud and misconduct
  • Apply tools and techniques including for-cause audits for investigation
  • Describe the FDA process for investigating potential misconduct and/or fraud cases
Target Audience
This course is directed to quality professionals who are in the GCP area with 1 or more years of experience.

Suggested Prerequisites/Background Knowledge

An understanding of Good Clinical Practice.

Agenda
  • Welcome, introductions and opening remarks
    • Course introduction
    • Opening poll/Getting to know you
  • Overview of serious misconduct and fraud with associated regulations including polling questions
    • Examples of root causes, including understanding ethical challenges
    • Rhe difference between misconduct vs fraud
    • The Fraud Triangle Theory 
    • In-depth look at the regulations, including:
      • GCP Breach and ICH E6 (R3)
      • How to report to the regulators.
    • Course Quizzes
  • Review of past cases
    • The Vioxx case and impact it had
    • The consequences of misconduct and fraud
    • The AMB Research case study
  • For cause audits
    • The need for a for cause audit
    • How best to leverage for cause audits when suspected cases are reported
  • Breakout sessions with exercises
    • Gain some experience using real life scenarios to:
      • Effectively analyze information
      • Communicate with colleagues regarding how best to deal with misconduct and suspected fraud
  • Wrap-Up
    • Panel discussion with Q&A
    • Concluding remarks
Level
Mixed-Level Audience: New quality professionals, i.e., beginner level, will learn more about misconduct and fraud and can begin developing their skills, whereas more experienced quality professionals, i.e., intermediate level, can sharpen their skills through the breakout sessions.
 

Course Category: GLP

GLP 106 — FDA GLP Preamble Overview (one half day, virtual)

Friday, 19 September 2025, 10:00 AM - 2:30 PM EDT


Registration Rates
  • By 27 August 2025: Member $400, Non-member $530, University/Government $290*, Student/Outreach Members $185
  • After 27 August 2025: Member $465, Non-member $595, University/Government $355*, Student/Outreach Members $185
Register Online

RQAP re-registration units: 4 GLP | non-GCP
Note: Participants must attend 100% of the training course to receive a certificate of attendance documenting RQAP re-registration units.

Presenter(s)

Barb Munch, Steve Rogenthien, Greg Furrow

Description

This course is intended to review the 1978, 1984, and 1987 FDA GLP Preambles in sequence by regulation. The goal of the class is to teach attendees how to use the preambles as a tool to help resolve regulatory questions. New documents have been created that contain each preamble along with the subsequent changes. Many important points of the preambles will be discussed, including examples of how to apply the intent as provided by the FDA Commissioner. The class is encouraged to bring their own regulatory questions for discussion.

Objectives
At the end of the course, the participants shall be able to:
  • Discuss the legal importance of preambles
  • Identify some of the most important preambles
  • Interpret the preambles to apply when issues arise
Target Audience
FDA GLP QA Auditors and Managers, from intermediate to experienced, as well as Study Directors, Principal Investigators, and Testing Facility Management.

Agenda
  1. Course Objectives
  2. Review of Course Materials
  3. Federal Rule Making
  4. Preamble Use - Class Activity
  5. Preamble Use - Presenter Examples
  6. Attendee Open Question Time
Level
Mixed-Level Audience: There is content for new folks as well as those who are experienced.

GLP 105 — Introduction to FDA GLP Bioresearch Monitoring Compliance Program (one half day, virtual)

Tuesday, 23 September 2025, 10:00 AM - 2:30 PM EDT

 
Registration Rates
  • By 27 August 2025:  Member $400,  Non-member $530,  University/Government $290*,  Student/Outreach Members $185
  • After 27 August 2025:  Member $465,  Non-member $595,  University/Government $355*,  Student/Outreach Members $185
        Register Online
 
RQAP re-registration units: 4 GLP | non-GCP
Note: Participants must attend 100% of the training course to receive a certificate of attendance documenting RQAP re-registration units.

Presenter(s)

Barb Munch, Lori Wright, Gina Tucker

Description

This class will review the FDA Compliance Program for Bioresearch Monitoring of the Good Laboratory Practice for Nonclinical Laboratory Studies (GLP) regulations (7348.808). FDA implemented this program of regular inspections and data audits to monitor laboratory compliance with the GLP regulations. The Compliance Program directs the FDA investigators how to conduct their GLP inspections of firms.  The class includes managing a FDA inspection, real-life examples of compliance issues, and explanations of relevant warning letter content.

Objectives
At the end of the course, participants shall be able to:
  • Describe how the FDA uses the Compliance Program to perform inspections
  • Apply the GLP Compliance Program information to build compliant processes
  • Develop an inspection plan to manage an FDA inspection
  • Identify what records to provide the FDA investigator/s during an inspection
  • Interpret selected warning letter findings based on understanding the Compliance Program and GLP regulations
Target Audience
FDA GLP QA Auditors and Managers, Study Directors, Principal Investigators, Testing Facility Management. 

Agenda
  1. The FDA GLP Compliance Program
  2. Compliance Program Content
  3. Managing an Inspection and Responses
  4. Other Useful FDA Documents
  5. Inspection Real Life Examples, Lessons Learned, and Discussion Topics
Level
Mixed-Level Audience: There is content for new folks as well as those who are experienced.

GLP 206 — Implementing and Maintaining a Robust GLP Internal Audit Program (one half day, virtual)

Wednesday, 24 September 2025, 10:00 AM - 2:30 PM EDT

 
Registration Rates
  • By 27 August 2025:  Member $400,  Non-member $530,  University/Government $290*,  Student/Outreach Members $185
  • After 27 August 2025:  Member $465,  Non-member $595,  University/Government $355*,  Student/Outreach Members $185
        Register Online
 
RQAP re-registration units: 4 GLP | non-GCP
Note: Participants must attend 100% of the training course to receive a certificate of attendance documenting RQAP re-registration units.

Presenter(s)

Vanessa Dubay, Randi LaMadeleine

Description

Implementing and maintaining a robust internal audit program is crucial for identification of risks, non-conformities, and opportunities for improvement. This course will review how to plan and implement an internal audit program. It will also go over auditing soft skills and effective ways to conduct internal audits. Writing up audit findings will be reviewed. Discussion will include what to do with the information gathered in the audit. The overall audit program itself should be reviewed for opportunities for improvement so that audits meet applicable requirements and expectations while providing added value and relevant, useful information to stakeholders.

Objectives
At the end of the course, participants shall be able to:
  • Describe the benefits of an internal audit program.
  • Plan and implement an internal audit program.
  • Demonstrate some auditor skills for conducting internal audits, including what to review and tips for writing up findings, risks, and opportunities for improvement.
  • Discuss how to use the information gathered as a tool for site improvement.
  • Explain how to take an internal audit program to the next level.
Target Audience
Mid-level QA auditors with experience in conducting audits looking to develop skills for implementing or improving an internal audit program. The presentation comes from the perspective of ISO 17025 and Good Laboratory Practices 21 CFR Part 58 but will have information that is transferrable across multiple disciplines.

Agenda
  1. Understand the objectives and benefits of an internal audit program
    • ISO 17025:2017b
    • GLP 21 CFR Part 58 Requirements
    • Internal SOPs
  2. Considerations for implementing an internal audit program
    • Stakeholder support and buy-in
      • Auditors
      • Auditees
      • Management
    • Goals
    • Planning
  3. Conduct of an internal audit
    • Auditing soft skills
    • Scheduling and flexibility
    • What types of things do you look at during an internal audit?
    • Write-up of findings, risks, opportunities, and strengths
    • Audit reporting and feedback
  4. What to do with the information gathered as a result of the audit
  5. Continuous improvement of the audit program
Level
Intermediate
 

Course Category: Other

RI 102 — 5 C’s to Respond to an FDA 483 (one half day, virtual)

Monday, 15 September 2025, 10:00 AM - 2:30 PM EDT

 
Registration Rates
  • By 27 August 2025:  Member $400,  Non-member $530,  University/Government $290*,  Student/Outreach Members $185
  • After 27 August 2025:  Member $465,  Non-member $595,  University/Government $355*,  Student/Outreach Members $185
        Register Online
 
RQAP re-registration units: 4 GCP | GLP
Note: Participants must attend 100% of the training course to receive a certificate of attendance documenting RQAP re-registration units.

Presenter(s)

Barb Munch, Ed Armstrong, Dawn Niccum, David Glasgow - FDA

Description

The 5 C’s course (Clear, Concise, Compelling, Complete, Compliant) was developed to help industry know best practices in how to respond to an FDA Form 483 and to reduce the likelihood of receiving a Warning Letter. Instructors will review the FDA Investigations Operations Manual (IOM) that discusses FDA investigator actions for GCP, GLP, and GMP establishment inspections. The IOM directs FDA investigators how to conduct and report inspections, including authority to enter, inspectional procedures, and reporting. Differences and similarities between GCP, GLP, and GMP when preparing for and hosting an FDA inspection will be discussed. Real-life examples of compliance issues will be presented, as well as a variety of scenarios with class participation with ways to respond, and ways not to respond, to an FDA Form 483. Content in this class is applicable to GCP, GLP, and GMP regulations; anyone working in any of these regulations will find the course valuable. We will explain how to receive an FDA Form 483, and how to respond using the 'Pittman 5 C's' to reduce the likelihood that incomplete responses could lead to a Warning Letter. For those who claim GLP compliance, this course information builds on GLP 105: Introduction to FDA GLP Bioresearch Monitoring Compliance Program; but it is not necessary to attend GLP 105 in preparation for this course.

Objectives
At the end of the course, participants shall be able to:

  • Explain what to do when FDA identifies significant objectionable conditions and how to receive an FDA Form 483
  • Describe the FDA’s expectations regarding FDA Form 483 responses using the 5 C’s
  • Identify and prevent incomplete or unclear FDA Form 483 responses that could lead to a Warning Letter or Untitled Letter
  • Identify relevant records that a firm should provide with their FDA Form 483 responses
  • Develop internal processes and training to generate FDA Form 483 responses that meet all 5 C’s
Target Audience
GCP, GLP, and GMP QA personnel, Study Directors, Test Facility Management. Years of experience is irrelevant. 
 
Agenda
  1. How not to respond
  2. Why was this class developed?
  3. FDA 483 myths
  4. FDA Investigations Operations Manual (IOM)
  5. Oh no, they found something!
  6. 5 C’s – Clear, Concise, Compelling, Complete, Compliant
  7. Oh no, there’s a Warning Letter!
  8. Frequent FDA 483 topics
  9. FDA 483 real life examples
  10. Scenarios repeated, better ways to respond
  11. FDA references
  12. Class exercises #1 and #2
Level
Mixed-Level Audience: There is content for new folks as well as those who are experienced.

GMP 203 — The Evolution of Quality Management in a Small Biopharmaceutical Startup (two half days, virtual)

Tuesday, 23 September 2025, 10:00 AM - 2:30 PM EDT

Wednesday, 24 September 2025, 10:00 AM - 2:30 PM EDT

 
Registration Rates
  • By 27 August 2025:  Member $640, Non-member $800, University/Government $485*, Student/Outreach Members $330
  • After 27 August 2025:  Member $705, Non-member $865, University/Government $550*, Student/Outreach Members $330
        Register Online
 
RQAP re-registration units: 8 non-GCP | non-GLP
Note: Participants must attend 100% of the training course to receive a certificate of attendance documenting RQAP re-registration units.

Presenter(s)

Charles Burt, Ben Podany, Scott Arnott

Description

Small biopharmaceutical startups face unique quality challenges, like balancing speed with regulatory compliance and operational maturity. This course explores how quality management must evolve as a small pharmaceutical company matures.

The course emphasizes real-world applicability from the perspective of Quality Management experts who successfully led a small biopharmaceutical company to its first FDA-approved product. Special focus is given to establishing foundational quality systems, integrating GMP-readiness in Manufacturing Quality Assurance, and developing proactive Supplier Quality Assurance programs.

Objectives
At the end of the course, participants shall be able to:
  • Discuss phase-appropriate quality requirements for startups
  • Build scalable and risk-based Quality Management Systems (QMS)
  • Define key roles and processes in Manufacturing Quality Assurance (MQA)
  • Implement effective Supplier Quality Assurance (SQA) programs
  • Prepare proactively for regulatory inspections and submissions
Target Audience

Any quality professional working at a pre-commercial small pharmaceutical or medical device company.  
Any quality professional employed by a small cell and gene therapy company.

Agenda
  • Welcome & Introduction
    • Icebreaker
    • Course goals and expectations
  • Module 1: The Evolution of Quality in a Startup Lifecycle
    • Phases of company growth: Discovery to commercial
    • Challenges of inheriting a program from a research institution
    • Importance of establishing a quality system early on
    • What quality means at each phase
    • Regulatory expectations
  • Module 2: Manufacturing Quality Assurance in a Startup
    • Establishing sound GMP principles early on
    • Batch record review, lot release, change control
    • Cleaning validation, equipment qualification, facility validation
  • Module 3: “Where Did It Go Wrong?” Case Study Workshop (Part 1)
  • Module 4: Supplier Quality Assurance (SQA) Essentials
    • Vendor selection and qualification
    • Audit strategies – the importance of auditing for company need
    • Building a robust risk-based Supplier Quality Program
  • Module 5: Raw Material Selection and Lifecycle Management Processes
    • Phase appropriate testing of raw materials
    • What to consider with a material risk assessment
    • How to choose qualifications and requalification activities
    • What is a Critical Quality Attribute? How are they identified and how are they used?
  • Module 6: “Where Did It Go Wrong?” Case Study Workshop (Part 2)
  • Module 7: Designing a Scalable QMS
    • Core components: Document control, training, CAPA, deviations
    • Phase-appropriate SOP strategy
    • Building quality into operations from day 1
  • Module 8: Digital Quality Systems for Startups
    • eQMS vs. paper-based: pros, cons, costs
    • Selecting and scaling digital solutions
  • Module 9: Preparing for Regulatory Inspection
    • Pre-approval inspection (PAI) readiness
    • Common pitfalls and FDA warning letter trends
    • Building a culture of inspection readiness
  • Module 10: “Where Did It Go Wrong?” Case Study Workshop (Part 3)
  • Module 11: Feedback and Q&A
Level
Intermediate

 

* University staff and government employees — select the University option as registration type.