Dr. Newman is a scientist and entrepreneur with a passion for the world of biology. After earning his Bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Berkeley in Biochemistry, Jack completed his Doctorate in Microbiology at the University of Wisconsin, Madison. Jack began his career in science in the field of bioremediation, engineering microbial systems to clean up toxic waste. He went on to co-found Amyris, (NASDAQ:AMRS), a fermentation biology-based company that produces a wide range of products including anti-malarial drugs, biofuels, essential oils and renewable personal care products.

As Chief Science Officer at Amyris, Jack built and managed a team of over 100 research scientists creating a culture of collaboration and mission-driven science for a better world. Jack is an inventor of the original technology to produce a cure for malaria using fermentation, work that was funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

Currently, Jack serves on the board of directors of the Biobricks Foundation, a public benefit company with a mission to ensure that the engineering of biology is conducted in an open and ethical manner to benefit all people and the planet. Jack also chairs the Board of Directors of zagaya, a public benefit company he co-founded to improve the human condition through technology and education.

Jack lives in Berkeley in a multi-generational household that includes seven chickens and a Vizsla.