Hans Keirstead | Chairman and CEO, AIVITA Biomedical; CEO
The Human Immunome Project

Dr. Hans Keirstead is an internationally recognized stem cell expert and entrepreneur in regenerative medicine. He has pioneered therapies for cancer, immune disorders, motor neuron diseases, spinal cord injury, retinal diseases, immune disorders, age-related immune decline, and has created a novel multi-pathogen vaccine kit. Each of Dr. Keirstead’s three biotechnology firms was sold to major pharmaceutical companies for 2.5X-9.5X returns to investors after return of investment capital. Currently, he holds board positions in several leading biotechs including AIVITA Biomedical, Immunis Inc., and the global Human Immune Project. During his 15-year tenure at the University of California Irvine, Dr. Keirstead mentored over 100 students, published over 150 manuscripts, and granted over 20 patents. His international media recognition includes being listed as one of Discover Magazine’s top 100 scientists, and highlights in Newsweek, WIRED, The New York Times, TIME Magazine, Science, and more. His scientific accomplishments have also been covered on 60 Minutes, PBS, and ABC news radio. Some of Dr. Keirstead’s notable awards include the “Top 20 Canadians” Award by the Consul General of Canada, “Most Innovative in Immune Deficiency Research,” by Corporate LiveWire, “Best Immune Deficit Treatment Development” by Global Health and Pharma, OCBJ’s “Innovator of the Year,” NIH Solowey award for noted national researcher of the year, recognition as a world thought leader at the Seven Wonderer's event by Beakerhead, and the Cameron Award for the best PhD in the country. Dr. Keirstead received his Ph.D. in neuroscience from the University of British Columbia, Canada, and pursued his postdoctoral research at the University of Cambridge, England.