Dr. Josh Kittleson has over 15 years of experience in industrial biotechnology, with a dual focus on working with structural proteins for novel applications and engineering microbial behavior. He holds a PhD in Bioengineering from UC Berkeley, a BS in Biochemistry and Computer Engineering from University of Arizona, and has authored dozens of patents and peer-reviewed scientific articles. Josh’s career started at the technology firm Bolt Threads, where he was responsible for biotechnology research andi material development projects ranging from spider silk textiles to fungal leather. He built and led the team that created the platform for rapid expression, purification, and evaluation of novel structural proteins and biochemical tools, leading to partnerships with renowned consumer brands including Adidas, Lululemon, and Stella McCartney.

Kittleson currently serves as a technical leader at the innovative biotech firm New Culture, which uses microbes to produce the proteins found in cheese, enabling development of stretchy, melty, and delicious animal-free mozzarella. Josh is deeply committed to advancing the potential of industrial biotechnology to transform industries, from fashion to food. His work at the intersection of biology, materials science, and engineering reflects his belief in the power of innovation to create sustainable, scalable solutions. With a focus on leveraging nature’s own tools to solve pressing challenges, Josh continues to shape the future of biotechnology, driving progress towards an innovative and ethical global economy.