Colin Scott is a microbial biochemist and synthetic biologist.  He obtained his PhD in 2000 at Sheffield University's Krebs Institute in England. In 2004, he joined CSIRO for a project focused on engineering enzymes to remove environmental pesticide contaminants, which won a DuPont Innovation Award in 2006. His research focuses on discovering, engineering, and evolving microbes and proteins, using the incredible biochemical diversity of microbes as inspiration to address major issues facing humanity. His current projects include using microbes and enzymes to clean up pollution, manufacture chemicals, and mine for critical metals. He is highly motivated to drive innovation and impacts in biotechnology for improved social, environmental, and industrial outcomes.