Michael Hunkapiller, who served as the CEO of Pacific Biosciences of California, Inc. from 2012 to 2020, is known for his impressive background in chemical biology. He holds a Ph.D. from Caltech and a B.S. in Chemistry from Oklahoma Baptist...
Michael Hunkapiller, who served as the CEO of Pacific Biosciences of California, Inc. from 2012 to 2020, is known for his impressive background in chemical biology. He holds a Ph.D. from Caltech and a B.S. in Chemistry from Oklahoma Baptist University. Under his leadership, the company capitalized on groundbreaking advancements in DNA sequencing technology, significantly impacting the field of genetics. Notably, during his tenure, Hunkapiller opted for a unique compensation structure: for several years, he took a salary of just $1, showing his commitment to the company’s success over personal gain. He was also a general partner in a venture capital firm prior to joining Pacific Biosciences, which added to his strategic insights. Hunkapiller made headlines in 2019 when he sold shares worth $12 million in PacBio, highlighting the company's fluctuating stock performance during his leadership. His retirement in late 2020 was marked by a smooth transition to a new CEO, ensuring stability for Pacific Biosciences as it faced exciting challenges ahead. Hunkapiller remains a board member, continuing his involvement in the company's future.