World-leading developmental biologist appointed Chief Biology Officer with Colossal
University of Melbourne Professor Andrew Pask has been appointed Chief Biology Officer at American de-extinction company, Colossal Biosciences.
Professor Pask is renowned for his expertise in de-extinction science, developmental genetics, and conservation technologies and leads the Thylacine Integrated Genomic Restoration Research Lab (TIGGR) at the University of Melbourne.
Professor Andrew Pask
Historically Colossal has funded a portion of the TIGGR lab, but under a new partnership with the University of Melbourne, the TIGGR lab will expand to focus fully on Colossal initiatives aimed at understanding and conserving the region's unique biodiversity.
In his new role, Pask will oversee Colossal Australia, global embryology, and all exogenous development systems, and report into Colossal Chief Science Officer, Beth Shapiro.
Professor Pask, who has been an advisor to Colossal since early 2022, will now be full-time at Colossal and focused on its core mission, while overseeing the global developmental biology strategies for all de-extinction projects.
All Colossal-affiliated research activities at the University of Melbourne, including the thylacine de-extinction project, the Northern quoll cane toad resistance project, and native frog and bird conservation projects will be consolidated into Colossal Australia, marking a formal global expansion and solidifying the partnership between Colossal and the University of Melbourne.
"This is an extraordinary opportunity to help shape the future of de-extinction and species preservation science," Professor Pask said.
"Colossal is bringing together the brightest minds, the boldest ideas, and the most powerful tools in biotechnology. I'm thrilled to help lead this team at the forefront of de-extinction research, not just to bring back lost species, but to apply those technologies in real-time to save those still with us."
Professor Pask’s work has redefined how scientists understand and protect Australia’s unique and endangered fauna. He has received international acclaim for his contributions to marsupial biology, including understanding their evolution and adaptation, and is one of the pioneers of de-extinction technologies.
Colossal CEO and co-founder Ben Lamm said Professor Pask’s appointment as Chief Biology Officer brings this suite of expertise to all Colossal’s de-extinction and conservation projects and underscores commitment to translational science that bridges academic research and real-world impact.
"Andrew has been a foundational voice in the science of de-extinction," Mr Lamm said.
"His deep scientific insight, bold vision, and passion for conservation are embedded in Colossal’s DNA. We are thrilled to welcome him to this role."
"This is a strategic time for Colossal as we broaden our activities and collaborations in Oceania. Australia's incredible biodiversity offers unique opportunities for innovation in de-extinction and biological research."
"Having a presence there will help Colossal achieve our goals of de-extincting the thylacine and working to restore and protect endangered species on the continent."
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