From Blockbuster to Biotech Breakthroughs - Episode 91

About this episode

Michael Feasel shares his unconventional journey to DARPA and discusses his work in chemical and biological defense.

It started with a movie. It led to a mission. In this episode of "Voices from DARPA," we sit down with Michael Feasel, Ph.D. , a program manager in the Biological Technologies Office , to discuss his extraordinary journey to the forefront of American innovation. From a pre-med student who found his calling in an inorganic chemistry class, to career inspiration from a Nicolas Cage film, Mike's path was anything but conventional. He shares how a chance Thanksgiving conversation launched his career in chemical and biological defense, and how he was later recruited to DARPA. Mike offers a unique look inside the agency, detailing the challenges of managing programs far outside his initial expertise and the incredible impact of fostering world-changing ideas. Discover the story behind his Protean program, which aims to revolutionize how we counter chemical threats, and hear his reflections on what makes DARPA a one-of-a-kind place for innovators. Related Content: DEVCOM Chemical Biological Center ABC Hermes RIDDL

People in this episode

Guests: Michael Feasel, Ph.D., Michael Feasel

Topics covered

• biotechnology
• chemical defense
• innovation
• DARPA
• career journey

Keywords

• DARPA
• biotechnology
• chemical threats
• innovation
• career path

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: DARPA, DEVCOM Chemical Biological Center, ABC Hermes, RIDDL

Books & works: Nicolas Cage film

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