Nevin M. Summers

Executive Director of the MIT Synthetic Biology Center
Summary
Nevin M. Summers is the Executive Director of the Synthetic Biology Center at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, overseeing collaborations between academia and industry to create innovative solutions in the field of synthetic biology.
He has a background in architecture and molecular biology, with a keen interest in combining various disciplines to design and improve biomolecules, cells, and organisms for societal challenges.
Nevin has a successful track record of raising funds, managing research programs, and contributing to patent filings and peer-reviewed publications in his roles at MIT and Harvard.
With executive experience in biotechnology startups and established companies, including serving as Chairman and CEO of CISTRAN and Senior Director at Hybridon, Nevin also has a strong foundation in finance, regulatory approval, and construction projects.
His educational journey includes a B.S. in Molecular Biology from Johns Hopkins University, an M.Arch. from Harvard University, and an S.M. in Management of Technology from MIT.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Nevin is a student of industrial design philosophy and has a background in supporting Bauhaus principles through his work with Mrs. Walter Gropius.
Having received recognition for his scientific talent at a young age and engaging in various research roles, Nevin continues to be actively involved in shaping the intersection of science, technology, and design.