Andrew Hessel

Andrew Hessel is a scientist and entrepreneur working at the intersection of synthetic biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Trained in microbiology and genetics, Hessel has contributed to advancements in reading and writing bacterial, human, and other genomes, emphasizing the concept that cells function as living computers and DNA serves as a programming language. His work in synthetic biology explores its potential to become a significant economic and societal driver, surpassing traditional information technology.

Hessel co-founded Miikana Therapeutics, a clinical-stage drug development company, and later established Pink Army Cooperative, the first cooperative biotechnology company focused on developing open-source viral therapies for cancer. As a Distinguished Researcher in the Bio/Nano Programmable Matter department at Autodesk, Hessel collaborated with Paul Jaschke and Jacqueline Quinn to design and synthesize the bacteriophage φX174 using digital tools, demonstrating rapid advancements in synthetic biology. The 3D-printed model of this engineered organism was acquired by the Museum of Modern Art in New York City. Hessel also co-founded Humane Genomics, Inc., which develops synthetic virus engineering solutions targeting cancer cells.

Hessel played a key role in launching Genome Project-write, an open, international research initiative aimed at making the engineering and testing of large genomes more cost-effective. He co-founded the project with George Church, Nancy J. Kelley, and Jef Boeke, bringing together multidisciplinary experts in genome engineering. Hessel has also served as a AAAS-Lemelson Invention Ambassador and was a founding faculty member and former co-chair of Bioinformatics and Biotechnology at Singularity University, where he contributed to the development of the Life Sciences track.

As an author and speaker, Hessel co-wrote the book "The Genesis Machine: Our Quest to Rewrite Life in the Age of Synthetic Biology" with Amy Webb. He has contributed articles to publications including The Atlantic, Wired UK, and Scientific American, and his work has been optioned by Paramount Pictures and translated into several languages. Hessel frequently presents on topics related to biotechnology, genomics, and biodefense for organizations such as EY, CERN, Stanford, the FBI, the United Nations, Singularity University, Forbes, and TEDx. He has participated in think tanks and organizations including the Berggruen Institute, Geneva Science and Diplomacy Anticipator, and the Long Now Foundation. Hessel combines laboratory experience with a focus on the evolving landscape of synthetic biology and its implications for science, technology, and society.