Colossal Biosciences, a leader in de-extinction initiatives, has announced the appointment of Andrew Pask, Ph.D., as its Chief Biology Officer. Pask is recognized for his extensive knowledge in de-extinction science, developmental genetics, and conservation technologies, and he currently leads the Thylacine Integrated Genomic Restoration Research Lab (TIGGR) at the University of Melbourne. Historically, Colossal has provided funding for the TIGGR lab, but with a new collaboration, it will now be integrated into Colossal Australia, aimed at harnessing the unique biodiversity of the region. In his new position, Pask will manage Colossal Australia, oversee global embryology, and coordinate all exogenous development systems, reporting to Chief Science Officer, Beth Shapiro, Ph.D.

Having served as an advisor to Colossal since early 2022, Pask will now focus full-time on the company’s central mission and lead its global developmental biology strategies for de-extinction projects. All research activities linked to Colossal at the University of Melbourne—including the thylacine de-extinction project, the Northern quoll cane toad resistance initiative, and various conservation efforts—will be consolidated under Colossal Australia. This represents a formal global expansion and strengthens the partnership between Colossal and the University of Melbourne, Australia's foremost university.

""This is an extraordinary opportunity to help shape the future of de-extinction and species preservation science,"" said Andrew Pask, Ph.D. ""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.""

Pask's research has significantly advanced the understanding and protection of Australia’s unique and endangered wildlife. He is celebrated internationally for his work in marsupial biology and is a pioneer in de-extinction technologies. With over two decades of experience in developmental biology, he has made strides in marsupial assisted reproductive technology, stem cell biology, and advanced embryology techniques. His new role as Chief Biology Officer will integrate this expertise into all of Colossal's de-extinction and conservation initiatives, demonstrating a commitment to translational science that connects academic research with tangible real-world impacts.

“Andrew has been a foundational voice in the science of de-extinction,” said Ben Lamm, Co-Founder and CEO of Colossal. “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.”

Pask's scientific achievements have garnered him numerous prestigious fellowships and awards throughout his career. In Australia, he has been honored with National Health and Medical Research Council Fellowships, the Australian Research Council Future Fellowship, and the University of Melbourne’s R@MAP Fellowship. He is also an Emerging Researcher Award recipient in the U.S., a Fellow of the Society for Reproductive Biology, and a two-time winner of the University of Melbourne’s top research awards. Pask's track record of innovation, collaboration, and mentorship will be instrumental in helping the scientific team meet ambitious goals.

“Andrew’s pioneering work in marsupial biology has already been accelerating our thylacine de-extinction program,” said Dr. Beth Shapiro, Chief Science Officer at Colossal. “He brings an unmatched understanding of the biological systems that we’re working to restore, as well as the creativity necessary to drive real-world impact while solving some of the hardest problems in biology today.”

Pask’s appointment is particularly timely as Colossal expands its de-extinction and conservation efforts across various continents and ecosystems. His leadership will ensure that Colossal’s scientific endeavors remain ambitious and biologically sound, reshaping the possibilities for biodiversity in the present and future.

“Andrew’s innovative and rigorous approach to developmental biology has transformed the scientific landscape around marsupials and inspired new possibilities for synthetic biology,” said Professor George Church, Co-Founder of Colossal. “His leadership and experiences are paramount for Colossal’s de-extinction pipeline and developmental biology needs.”

Colossal Australia will prioritize research initiatives targeting native species, with the goal of resurrecting extinct animals like the thylacine and restoring ecological balance. The country is an ideal site for this expansion, being a hotspot for biodiversity loss with the highest rate of mammal extinctions globally, while also being at the forefront of implementing advanced conservation science to combat the effects of climate change and urbanization on native species.

ABOUT COLOSSAL

Colossal, founded by entrepreneur Ben Lamm and geneticist George Church, Ph.D., is pioneering the application of CRISPR technology for species de-extinction. The company develops innovative solutions for species restoration, protection of critically endangered species, and the revitalization of ecosystems essential for sustaining life on Earth. Colossal aims to restore the planet to a healthier state while addressing future economic and biological challenges through cutting-edge science and technology.