Kate Rubins
Kathleen Rubins was selected by NASA in 2009. Rubins completed her first spaceflight on Expedition 48/49, where she became the first person to sequence DNA in space. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Molecular Biology from the University of California and a Ph.D. in Cancer Biology from Stanford University Medical School Biochemistry Department and Microbiology and Immunology Department. Dr. Rubins conducted her undergraduate research on HIV-1 integration in the Infectious Diseases Laboratory at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies. She worked as a Fellow/Principal Investigator at the Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research and headed 14 researchers studying viral diseases that primarily affect Central and West Africa. Rubins most recently served aboard the International Space Station as flight engineer for Expedition 63/64. Across her two flights, she has spent a total of 300 days in space, the fourth most days in space by a U.S. female astronaut.
NASA
Miniaturizing Biology: Microfluidics and Cell-Free Systems for Global and Space-Ready R&D
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This session explores how microfluidics and automated cell-free protein synthesis (CFPS) are transforming biological research by enabling rapid, high-throughput workflows in compact, accessible formats. Panelists will discuss how these technologies are minimizing infrastructure needs, making advanced molecular biology and biochemistry accessible in resource-limited or extreme environments—from rural clinics and pharmaceutical labs to low Earth orbit. Applications span early-stage drug discovery, accelerating protein discovery, biosurveillance, and decentralized response systems for global health preparedness.
Students Luncheon - Biology to the Stars and Beyond!
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Designed for the next generation of biotech innovators, this lunch connects students with industry experts and potential mentors. Gain valuable insights, explore career opportunities, and build relationships that could shape your future in synthetic biology.
Space and Defense: Synthetic Biology Moonshots
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This session explores the powerful alliance of space and defense organizations driving the future of off-world biotechnology. Participants will delve into cutting-edge research designed to support life on the Moon and Mars, from resource-efficient manufacturing and regenerative life-support systems to the development of resilient biological tools for extreme environments. By addressing the technical and logistical challenges of long-term space habitation, this discussion highlights how breakthroughs in synthetic biology, high-risk research programs, and cross-agency collaboration can redefine our interplanetary ambitions and accelerate humanity’s progress beyond Earth.
Students + Early-Stage Founder Lunch
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This is an invite-only exclusive lunch with Astronaut Kate Rubins as she shares her remarkable journey from scientist to astronaut and the critical role biology plays in space exploration. This intimate gathering is designed for students and early-stage founders passionate about the future of life sciences beyond Earth. Come for an inspiring conversation, practical insights, and the opportunity to connect with fellow emerging leaders in the synthetic biology community.
