Sep 22-26, 2025
Los Altos High School
Dr. Kristen Douglas
VP, Drug Substance Process Development & Manufacturing Sciences
The Evolution of Biotechnology: Transformation Through Science, Technology, and Innovation
This talk explores the evolution of biotechnology, from ancient fermentation to modern breakthroughs like gene editing and mRNA vaccines. Students will discover how biotech transforms health, food, and the environment — and how the next generation can help shape its future.
Meet the Speaker:
Kristen Douglas is Vice President of Drug Substance Process Development and Manufacturing Sciences at Vir Biotechnology, where she leads teams developing innovative biologics and vaccines. She has played a key role in advancing transformative medicines, including antibodies that helped millions during the COVID-19 pandemic. Kristen is also active in the broader scientific community as chair of the Gordon Research Conference on Biotherapeutics and Vaccines, and she is committed to mentoring and inspiring the next generation of scientists. On weekends you can find her at a farmers market or hanging out with her two kids.