Dr. Jay Keasling stands as a preeminent leader in the field of synthetic biology with distinguished academic appointments at the University of California, Berkeley. He currently serves as the Philomathia Distinguished Chair in Alternative Energy and Professor of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering and Bioengineering while also holding the position of Associate Laboratory Director for Biosciences at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. Dr. Keasling earned his Bachelor's degree in Chemistry and Biology from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 1986 followed by his M.S. and Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Michigan in 1988 and 1991 respectively. His academic journey continued with postdoctoral research in biochemistry at Stanford University before joining Berkeley Lab as a Senior Faculty Scientist in 1992 where he has remained throughout his illustrious career.
Dr. Keasling's pioneering research in metabolic engineering has transformed the production of pharmaceuticals and biofuels through innovative synthetic biology approaches. His laboratory developed groundbreaking methods to engineer yeast microbes for the synthetic production of artemisinin the powerful antimalarial drug which has saved countless lives in malaria endemic regions worldwide. This transformative work earned him a landmark 42.5 million dollar grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation in 2004 to develop and distribute low cost malaria treatment. His contributions extend to biofuel development securing a 125 million dollar grant from the US Department of Energy in 2007 to establish the Joint BioEnergy Institute where he serves as Chief Executive Officer. Dr. Keasling's research has not only advanced scientific understanding but has also delivered practical solutions to pressing global health and energy challenges.
With over 300 peer reviewed publications and more than 30 issued patents Dr. Keasling has established himself as one of the most influential figures in synthetic biology. His laboratory continues to develop foundational tools for engineering metabolism inside cells focusing on environmentally friendly synthesis of biofuels chemicals and pharmaceuticals. As a dedicated mentor he has cultivated the next generation of scientists and engineers many of whom have gone on to lead their own impactful research programs. Dr. Keasling's election to the National Academy of Engineering in 2010 underscores the profound impact of his work on both scientific advancement and practical applications. His ongoing research seeks to further harness the power of engineered biology to create sustainable solutions for global energy and health challenges cementing his legacy as a visionary in the field.
