Weifeng Xu

Weifeng began his industrial career at BMS (NY, USA), specializing in the field of neutralizing antibody (NAb) assays for biologics. He then transitioned to Merck, where he established the Cell Assay Group, which focuses on NAb assays for both biologics and vaccines. Throughout his career, he has published multiple influential papers, including the first successful case of a NAb waiver, the first cell-binding NAb assay for antibody-drug conjugates, and the groundbreaking use of LC/MS to optimize immunogenicity assays.

Weifeng also invented and patented two new methods for NAb assays. His most recent method, the PABAD method, has become Merck’s standard NAb assay format due to its reliability and cost-effectiveness, achieved by significantly reducing the need for biotinylated reagents and eliminating the use of expensive magnetic beads. In addition, he co-edited the 2022 book “Bioanalytic Aspects in Biological Therapeutics.”

As an active member of multiple scientific societies, Weifeng contributes to the IQ Consortium and the European and China Bioanalytical Forum. He holds leadership positions as an executive member of the Chinese Biopharmaceutical Association-GP and co-chairs the AAPS NAb working group.

At Merck, Weifeng expanded his focus to include cell therapy and vaccines. He co-led the IQ Consortium Cell Therapy Immunogenicity group, which resulted in a published White Paper. He also played a key role in supporting the COVID-19 vaccine and the approval of the 21-valent pneumococcal vaccine, Capvaxive. Currently, he leads the Scientific Strategy and Liaison team at Merck’s Regulated Bioanalytics Group, contributing to all scientific discussions within the department, particularly concerning the bioanalytical strategy for antibody drug conjugates.

Weifeng is also our 2025 BOSCA winner!

What three things would you take if you were stranded on a desert island?

  • A portable solar system to generate power
  • A dehumidifier (to generate water from air)
  • My Kindle with my whole library

If you weren’t a bioanalyst, what would you be? 

A meditation practitioner.

What is your favorite city?

Shanghai.

Why have you decided to become a Zone Leader?

To share and contribute broadly, and also to interact and learn from others.