Dr Natalie Curach has a PhD in Biotechnology where she worked on recombinant protein production in filamentous fungi under the supervision of Professor Helena Nevalainen, formerly of VTT Finland.

It was here where she gained the expertise in the engineering of biology for desired functionality that prepared her for the transition into Synthetic Biology. Since then, Curach has been at the forefront of Synthetic Biology and the growth thereof in Australia commencing with the establishment of a laboratory to undertake Australia’s contribution to the global Yeast 2.0 initiative. Dr Curach has worked as a scientist in biotechnology research within the Australian University system, Government, as well as private laboratories. Curach subsequently transitioned into industry where she focused on building a thriving start-up and biotechnology ecosystem through her business development and leadership roles.