Vicki Sato

Vicki Sato, PCAST Member (cropped)

Vicki Sato is an American biologist and business executive known for her contributions to the biotechnology industry. She has held significant positions in both academia and the private sector, playing a pivotal role in the development of several groundbreaking biopharmaceutical products.

Early Life and Education

Vicki Sato was born in San Francisco, California. She earned her B.A. in biology from Radcliffe College and her Ph.D. in biology from Harvard University. Her doctoral research focused on immunology, laying the foundation for her future work in biotechnology.

Academic Career

After completing her Ph.D., Sato joined the faculty at Harvard University, where she conducted research and taught courses in immunology and cell biology. She later became a professor at Harvard Business School, where she taught courses on the business of science and biotechnology.

Industry Career

Vicki Sato transitioned from academia to the biotechnology industry, where she has had a significant impact. She joined Biogen, a pioneering biotechnology company, where she held various leadership roles, including Vice President of Research and Development. During her tenure at Biogen, she was involved in the development of several important drugs, including Avonex for multiple sclerosis.

Sato later joined Vertex Pharmaceuticals as the Chief Scientific Officer and eventually became the President of the company. Under her leadership, Vertex developed several key therapies, including Kalydeco for cystic fibrosis.

Board Memberships and Advisory Roles

Vicki Sato has served on the boards of several biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, including Bristol-Myers Squibb and PerkinElmer. She has also been an advisor to various academic and governmental organizations, contributing her expertise to the advancement of biotechnology and healthcare.

Awards and Recognition

Throughout her career, Sato has received numerous awards and honors for her contributions to science and industry. She has been recognized by organizations such as the American Association for the Advancement of Science and has been inducted into the Biotechnology Hall of Fame.

Personal Life

Vicki Sato is married and has two children. She continues to be active in the biotechnology community, mentoring young scientists and entrepreneurs.

See Also

• Biotechnology
• Immunology
• Vertex Pharmaceuticals
• Harvard University
• Biogen