Arthur D. Levinson, born on March 31, 1950, in Seattle, Washington, is an American biochemist and business executive renowned for his leadership in the biotechnology industry. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in molecular biology from the University of Washington in 1972 and a PhD in biochemistry from Princeton University in 1977. Levinson began his career as a postdoctoral researcher at the University of California, San Francisco, before joining Genentech in 1980 as a staff scientist. He rose through the ranks at the pioneering biotech firm, becoming president and CEO in 1995, a position he held until 2009. Under his leadership, Genentech developed groundbreaking therapies for diseases like cancer and grew into a major pharmaceutical powerhouse before its acquisition by Roche in 2009. Following his tenure at Genentech, where he also served as chairman from 1999 to 2014, Levinson transitioned to broader roles in technology and innovation. In 2011, he was appointed chairman of Apple Inc.'s board of directors, succeeding Al Gore, and has played a key role in guiding the company through periods of immense growth and transition following the death of Steve Jobs. Additionally, since 2013, Levinson has served as CEO of Calico, a life sciences company focused on aging and age-related diseases, backed by Alphabet Inc. (Google's parent company). His work at Calico emphasizes extending human healthspan through advanced research in biology and genetics. Levinson's influence extends beyond corporate leadership; he has been involved in scientific governance, serving on the board of the Broad Institute and as a former president of the International Society for Stem Cell Research. Recognized for his contributions to science and business, he has received numerous accolades, including election to the National Academy of Sciences. Levinson's career exemplifies the intersection of biotechnology, technology, and philanthropy, positioning him as a pivotal figure in networks of influence within Silicon Valley and the global biotech sector.