Fireside Chat
Formulation and Delivery
of Spray Dried Biologics
for Injectable Dosage Forms:
High Concentration and Encapsulated Biologics
Thursday 5th February 2026
Session Overview:
Injectable biologics are the backbone of modern therapeutics, but as molecules become more complex and doses increase, formulation challenges multiply. In this fireside chat, we’ll explore how spray drying is enabling high-concentration injectable biologics and encapsulated systems that improve stability, reduce viscosity, and enhance patient experience.
We’ll begin by looking at the fundamentals of spray drying and why it’s emerging as a powerful tool for injectable formulations. Then, we’ll dive into the unique challenges of high-concentration biologics and how spray drying can help create stable, concentrated powders that reconstitute easily for injection.
Next, we’ll explore encapsulation strategies for biologics. How can spray drying be used to create protective matrices or controlled-release particles for injectable delivery?
Finally, we’ll cover testing and characterization from reconstitution performance and particle morphology to stability studies and potency assays, ensuring these advanced formulations meet stringent quality and regulatory requirements.
Speakers:
Dr. Richard Johnson
Chief Scientific Officer
Dr Richard Johnson is the Founding Director and Chief Scientific Officer at Upperton Pharma Solutions, a UK-based Contract, Development and Manufacturing Organisation (CDMO) and graduated from Warwick University with a PhD Biochemistry. In 1994 he was part of a management buy-out team that founded Andaris Ltd, a research and development company exploiting the use of spray drying technology in the fields of diagnostic imaging and drug delivery. In 1999, Dr Johnson founded Upperton and has overseen significant growth and expansion over the past 25 years, specialising in spray drying and nasal drug development.
Dr. Jordan Potts
Senior Development Scientist I
Jordan is a Senior Development Scientist I at Upperton. He holds an integrated Masters degree in Biomedical Sciences from Leeds Beckett University, alongside a PhD, Doctor of Philosophy from the University of Nottingham. With over five years of experience within CDMOs, Jordan has progressed from a Development Scientist role to Senior Development Scientist at Upperton, working in the Research & Development team. Jordan applies a science-led approach to support efficient development across a large range of pharmaceutical and analytical techniques.