KEIRA HAVENS is a synthetic-biologist-turned-entrepreneur dedicated to making biotechnology beautiful and accessible. She is currently the director of the One Sky Initiative, an independent voice dedicated to impact assessment of applied biology. This initiative, which asks the question “How do we apply biology well?”, grew out of an effort to bridge the gap between the perceptions, potential and reality of plant genetic engineering, starting with flowers that change color throughout the day. Revolution Bioengineering now works with artists, bioethicists, engineers and scientists to introduce the potential and possibility of synthetic biology through these flowers. After receiving a bachelor’s degree in molecular biophysics and biochemistry from the Illinois Institute of Technology in 2004, Havens accepted a commission in the United States Air Force. She left active duty to pursue a degree in a synthetic biology laboratory and received an MS from Colorado State University in 2014.
ANDREW HERR is the CEO of Helicase, a leader in human performance enhancement. Helicase leverages cutting-edge science and technology to enhance mental and physical performance. Helicase also conducts groundbreaking research and development to push the frontiers of the field through its Mind Plus Matter division. To give back, Andrew teaches and conducts research as an adjunct professor of security studies at Georgetown University, as an adjunct fellow at the Center for a New American Security, and as co-director of the Herr Hands-On Learning Award program also at Georgetown. Prior to his current positions, Andrew led efforts on the future of human performance and biotechnology for the US Department of Defense. Andrew received master’s degrees in health physics, microbiology and immunology, and security studies from Georgetown University,
COMMUNITY: FELLOWS
along with his bachelor’s in science, technology and international affairs and a certificate in Eurasian, Russian, and East European studies.