Dr. Lishan Zhao has over two decades of experience in engineering biology and a proven track record of developing and commercializing bio-based technologies and products. Prior to founding Cataya, Dr. Zhao served as Vice President of Research and Development at Amyris from 2008 to 2021. During his tenure there, he helped develop a world-class synthetic biology platform and bring more than ten products from lab to market. He also led a successful effort in building its business in China. Before joining Amyris, Dr. Zhao worked at Diversa Corp, where he discovered and engineered enzymes for various industrial applications. Dr. Zhao holds a BS and a MS in chemistry from Fudan University, Shanghai, and a Ph.D. in biological chemistry from University of Minnesota, Twin Cities.