Tim Lu

Timothy Lu is a leading synthetic biologist and a professor at MIT. He is known for combining engineering, computer science, and biology to reprogram cells and microbes. This process, known as synthetic biology, allows scientists to create new behaviors and functions in living things, much like a computer programmer codes a program. Tim’s work has had a significant impact on medicine. He has developed new ways to program bacteria to act as living therapies. For example, he has created engineered bacteria that can be used to diagnose diseases, fight infections, or treat complex conditions like cancer and autoimmune disorders. He also co-founded several companies, including Senti Biosciences and Synlogic, to bring these innovative medical treatments to patients. Considered one of the founding fathers of synthetic biology, Tim has received numerous awards for his groundbreaking research, including the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers.