About
Vitalist Bay is an 8-week longevity zone in Berkeley, California bringing the world’s best minds together to extend human healthspan & solve aging.
4000+
Attendees
70
On campus residents
100
Co-working space seats
8
Weekly themes
Experience Vitalist Bay
To start
For Businesses
For Enterprises
Longevity co-living campus
8 theme weeks/conferences
Community x productivity
Bringing the best minds to solve aging
Meet the visionary speakers attending Vitalist Bay
Alberto Aparicio is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Bioethics and Health Humanities. He completed postdoctoral fellowships at the Global Observatory for Genome Editing at Harvard University and the Alexander von Humboldt Biological Resources Research Institute in Colombia. Dr. Aparicio holds a PhD in Science and Technology Studies from University College London and an MPhil in Technology Policy from Cambridge University. With experience in policy, academia, consultancy, and government, his research focuses on the governance of emerging biotechnology and the societal implications of bioscience, including evolving attitudes toward life and technoscience.
Ariel Zeleznikow-Johnston is a neuroscientist at Monash University, Australia, where he investigates methods for characterising the nature of conscious experiences. Ariel is also the author of "The Future Loves You: How and Why We Should Abolish Death", and has been featured in major publications like The Guardian and the BBC. His research interests range from the decline, preservation and rescue of cognitive function at different stages of the lifespan, through to comparing different people’s conscious experience of colour. By contributing to research that clarifies the neurobiological, cognitive, and philosophical basis of what it is to be a person, he hopes to accelerate the development of medical infrastructure that will help prevent him and everyone else from dying.
Akshay Sanghavi is the founder of Stealth Longevity Research Biotech, a company focused on reversing biological age to cure chronic diseases. With over a decade of experience in epigenetics and gene regulation, Akshay has pioneered non-chemotherapy, immune-based cancer therapies and researched natural solutions to ameliorate aging-related biochemical declines. He also led innovative advancements in LED lighting technology as COO, where his team developed disruptive solutions that reduced parts by 70% and introduced the industry’s first lifetime warranty. Akshay’s work continues to push the boundaries of health and technology innovation.
Kamen Shoylev is a dual-qualified lawyer, practicing at both the Bulgarian and English Bars. As co-managing partner at New Balkans Law Office, he provides expert advice on corporate, commercial, regulatory, and IP law, focusing on cross-border issues between Bulgaria, the EU, and the UK. Kamen’s legal expertise spans corporate disputes, EU law, and intellectual property. With a keen interest in innovation and longevity, he integrates his knowledge of science, technology, and investment ethics into his work. Kamen holds a B.A. in Law from Cambridge University and is committed to advancing entrepreneurial and legal solutions globally.
Siim Land is an 8-time bestselling author, anthropologist, keynote speaker, and longevity advocate dedicated to maximizing healthy human lifespan. With over a decade of research into health, fitness, and mindset, he empowers high-performing individuals through his YouTube channel, blog, and online coaching. Combining a background in Cultural and Social Anthropology with a passion for human optimization, Siim Land delivers transformative insights into body-mind empowerment. His Amazon-bestselling books and rising video courses inspire audiences worldwide to thrive physically, mentally, and professionally.
Prof. Peter Lidsky is an expert in virology and genetics, with MS and PhD training from Moscow State University, focusing on virus-host interactions in Picornaviruses. He advanced his career at the University of Zurich, developing fluorescent imaging tools for Drosophila. At UCSF, Prof. Lidsky integrated his virology and genetics expertise, establishing a renowned research program. He is best known for developing the "pathogen control" hypothesis of aging, a pioneering framework that continues to shape his groundbreaking research on the intersection of aging, immunity, and pathogen dynamics.
Ethan Perlstein is a visionary scientist-entrepreneur dedicated to eradicating rare diseases. As Founder/CEO of Perlara PBC, the first biotech public benefit corporation, Ethan has pioneered healthspan-extending therapeutics and cures for rare metabolic disorders. He also leads Maggie's Pearl LLC, advancing precision medicines for ultra-rare conditions, and recently launched Curetopia, a groundbreaking DAO aiming to transform rare disease treatment through decentralized collaboration. With a PhD from Harvard and impactful roles at Princeton and the Reeve Foundation, Ethan blends innovation and leadership to redefine biotech’s role in global health.
Yuri Deigin is an entrepreneur, scientist, and biotech innovator with a deep focus on life sciences and longevity research. He is the co-founder and CEO of YouthBio Therapeutics, a company dedicated to developing cutting-edge gene therapies aimed at reversing aging processes at the cellular level. With a background in biotechnology, drug development, and artificial intelligence, Yuri has been at the forefront of translating scientific discoveries into practical solutions to combat age-related decline. His work is driven by a passion for advancing rejuvenation technologies to extend healthy human lifespan and improve quality of life.
Eleanor Sheekey is a dynamic scientist and communicator, blending cutting-edge research with engaging education. As a Postdoctoral Researcher at RIKEN, she explores skin aging and extracellular matrices, building on her PhD at the Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, where she studied p53 and cellular senescence. Creator of the Sheekey Science Show YouTube channel, Eleanor simplifies complex science for almost 50K subscribers, covering topics like longevity and CRISPR. She’s also a guest lecturer and director of Sheekey Science Solutions. Passionate about knowledge-sharing, Eleanor’s work inspires curiosity and advances understanding in biomedicine.
Bernie Siegel is a physician and author with decades of experience in medical practice and patient care. He is the founder of Exceptional Cancer Patients (ECaP), a groundbreaking therapeutic approach emphasizing the mind-body connection and the power of self-healing. Bernie's work integrates traditional medicine with holistic practices, focusing on the role of love, hope, and personal empowerment in the healing process. His pioneering efforts have inspired millions through his books, lectures, and advocacy for compassionate, patient-centered care.
Jason Kelly is an entrepreneur and innovator with over a decade of experience in synthetic biology and biotechnology. He is the co-founder and CEO of Ginkgo Bioworks, a company pioneering the use of biological engineering to create sustainable solutions across industries. Jason's background is rooted in biological engineering and computational biology, with a focus on harnessing the power of living organisms to address global challenges. His work aims to revolutionize manufacturing, agriculture, and medicine by programming biology to create a more sustainable and healthier future.
Kazuma Kishida is the pioneering CEO of Dioseve, a groundbreaking biotech company revolutionizing infertility treatment by developing human eggs from iPS and ES cells. Under his leadership, Dioseve is at the forefront of creating new possibilities for couples struggling with infertility, aiming to redefine reproductive medicine. With a strong foundation in financial strategy from his tenure as a financial analyst at Houlihan Lokey, Kaz combines scientific innovation with business acumen to drive transformative advancements in biotech. Based in Tokyo, he is committed to delivering hope through science and innovation.
Dr. Keshav K. Singh, a globally recognized expert in longevity and mitochondrial science, is the founder and Chief Scientific Officer of Yuva Biosciences, a trailblazing biotech company focused on extending healthspan through mitochondrial innovation. As the Joy and Bill Harbert Endowed Chair at UAB and founding editor of Mitochondrion, Dr. Singh has authored over 100 publications and three books, earning honors like Stanford’s Top 2% Scientists and Newsweek’s Innovation Hero. A dynamic thought leader, he pioneers transformative research at the intersection of aging, health disparities, and mitochondrial genetics.
Paul Kiesow is a professor at Thomas Edison State University, where he teaches courses on news writing, communication, and literacy. He is an advocate for healthy aging with a personal commitment to life-extension practices. In the early 1990s, he began incorporating growth hormone releasers, such as arginine and ornithine, into his regimen to stimulate the pituitary gland's release of human growth hormone (HGH). Complementing this, Paul maintains a comprehensive "nutritional pantry" that includes a full range of antioxidants and high-potency vitamin and mineral supplements. His proactive approach has resulted in increased energy, improved muscle tone, and overall vitality, allowing him to enjoy life fully.
Sebastian Giwa is an entrepreneur and innovator with extensive experience in biotechnology and translational research. He is the founder of Sylvatica Biotech, a company at the forefront of developing advanced preservation technologies to enable organ banking and improve global access to transplantation. Sebastian's background spans cryobiology, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine, with a focus on overcoming the challenges of long-term organ storage. His work aims to revolutionize healthcare by creating solutions that enhance the availability and efficiency of life-saving organ transplants worldwide.
Vladik Krupalnik, a visionary biotech entrepreneur, is the CEO, co-founder, and board member of RenewalBio, advancing groundbreaking innovations in regenerative medicine. With a diverse leadership background, including roles as COO of RenewalBio and CSO at Epeius Pharma, Vladik has spearheaded transformative work in cell and gene therapy, focusing on next-generation delivery systems for CNS therapies. As a co-inventor and board member of CatchMe Therapeutics, he drives cutting-edge solutions in oncology. His expertise spans bioinformatics, diagnostics, and translational research, making him a key strategist in biotech innovation.
Dr. Grant E. Fraser is a board-certified physician specializing in anti-aging and regenerative medicine, with over 25 years of experience in emergency medicine and a commitment to optimizing patient health. He is the founder of a telemedicine practice dedicated to improving healthspan, reversing health conditions, and slowing biological aging through personalized care. Dr. Fraser's medical background encompasses functional and integrative medicine, with a focus on preventive strategies and lifestyle optimization. His work aims to provide comprehensive, evidence-based approaches to enhance quality of life and promote longevity.
Jacob Peters is the Founder of Superpower.com, an audacious venture dedicated to transforming health and longevity. A serial entrepreneur, he co-founded Launch House, a dynamic startup ecosystem investing $25k-$250k in early-stage companies, and Commsor, a pioneering platform for community teams that raised $68M. Formerly a Data Scientist at J.P. Morgan, Jacob spearheaded innovation, winning accolades from CEO Jamie Dimon and presenting to 6,000+ attendees at a global symposium. Passionate about bold ideas, Jacob thrives at the intersection of technology, community, and human potential.
Matthew Osman is an entrepreneur and AI specialist with a diverse background in finance and law. He holds a degree in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics from the University of Oxford. He co-founded Legit.ai, a life science AI startup that utilized natural language processing to streamline research and development processes. Under his leadership, Legit.ai was acquired by Clora in 2020. Matthew's work focuses on integrating AI technologies across various industries to drive innovation and efficiency.
Throughout his career, Andrew McKenzie has contributed to the understanding of brain cell type-specific gene expression and co-expression network architectures. His work aims to advance the field of neuroscience through innovative research and collaboration. Dr. McKenzie's research focuses on brain banking, ischemic alterations in the brain, and long-term preservation methods. His scholarly work emphasizes structural brain preservation, guiding the research directions at Oregon Brain Preservation, a non-profit organization.
Melissa King is a strategic management and communications executive with extensive experience in global healthcare and research policy. She is the Chief Operating Officer and a Founding Board Member of the Healthspan Action Coalition, an organization dedicated to promoting healthy aging and advancing medical research to reduce the burden of chronic diseases. Throughout her career, Melissa has been a passionate advocate for patients suffering from chronic illnesses, focusing on accelerating medical advancements and ensuring equitable access to innovative treatments. She has played a pivotal role in engaging multiple stakeholders and effectively communicating complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences.
Niklas Anzinger is an entrepreneur and investor with a focus on innovative urban development and regulatory frameworks. He is the founder and CEO of Infinita City, an organization dedicated to leveraging special regulatory zones to accelerate biomedical progress. Niklas is also the founder and general partner of Infinita VC, a venture capital firm based in the charter city of Próspera in Honduras, focusing on charter cities and alternative jurisdictions. His work creates scalable regulatory solutions that can be applied across multiple jurisdictions, fostering environments conducive to innovation and progress.
Dr. Hisham Badaruddin is a medical doctor and public health specialist with over 25 years of experience in the healthcare system. He is the founder and CEO of Bartley Clinic, a general practice in Singapore that integrates primary care with longevity medicine to make advanced healthcare more accessible. At Bartley Clinic, Dr. Hisham focuses on preventive medicine, health screening, lifestyle medicine, and modern longevity science, aiming to optimize health and extend disease-free years for his patients. Throughout his career, Dr. Hisham has held leadership roles in biopharma, healthcare insurance, and telehealth companies.
Laila Zemrani is an entrepreneur with extensive experience in personalized wellness and health data analytics. She is the co-founder and CEO of Fitnescity, a company that offers lab-based assessments to help individuals improve their fitness, nutrition, and overall health. Fitnescity partners with leading labs, hospitals, and clinics nationwide to provide accessible wellness testing. An early adopter and advocate of personalized wellness and self-collected data, her work focuses on empowering individuals to take control of their health through accessible and understandable data.
Kevin Perrott is an entrepreneur and scientist with over 15 years of experience at the intersection of biotechnology and longevity research. He is the founder and CEO of OpenCures, an organization dedicated to empowering individuals to harness the potential of self-directed health data and cutting-edge scientific insights to improve their longevity. Kevin’s background spans molecular biology, biogerontology, and bioinformatics. His work focuses on advancing personalized approaches to health optimization and developing therapies to combat the root causes of aging.
Erick Brimen is an entrepreneur and investor with extensive experience in finance and socioeconomic development. He is the founder and CEO of Próspera, a special economic zone in Honduras designed to foster economic growth and innovation. He served as CFO for Latin America at the Borealis Group, where he led the creation of multiple business units. As an entrepreneur, Erick founded ComparaMejor.com, a leading online insurance brokerage in Colombia, and NeWay Capital, focusing on alternative real estate strategies that drive socioeconomic development.
James Arrowood is an entrepreneur, legal expert, and executive with extensive experience in the life extension and biotechnology sectors. He is the Co-CEO of the Alcor Life Extension Foundation, where he has been instrumental in guiding the organization since 2015. James initially joined Alcor as outside General Counsel, helping navigate complex legal and business challenges. He has also served on the board of directors for a major local non-profit and as its public relations chair, contributing to his long-standing expertise in media and public relations. His work focuses on advancing Alcor’s mission and engaging with the wider conversation on cutting-edge technologies aimed at extending human lifespan.
Ralf Spindler is a leading scientist and innovator with extensive expertise in neural systems cryopreservation. As the Head of Neural Systems Cryopreservation at 21st Century Medicine, he plays a pivotal role in advancing preservation techniques critical to the field of cryobiology. With a background in electrical and biomedical engineering, Ralf's research focuses on improving methods to preserve the human brain and other neural structures at ultra-low temperatures, with the goal of ensuring their integrity for future revival. His work is at the forefront of bridging the gap between cutting-edge science and long-term human preservation.
Ralph C. Merkle is a computer scientist and cryptographer with over 40 years of experience in academic research and technological innovation. He is a board member at the Alcor Life Extension Foundation, an organization focused on cryonics and life extension. Ralph's scientific background encompasses public key cryptography, cryptographic hashing, and nanotechnology. His work aims to advance secure communication systems and explore technologies to extend human life.
Abud Bakri is a physician and entrepreneur with a passion for revolutionizing healthcare. As the Co-Founder and Vice-Chair of Gxza Health, he plays a pivotal role in driving the company’s mission to innovate and expand access to cutting-edge health solutions. Abud's expertise shapes Gxza Health's approach to improving patient care. His work is committed to advancing healthcare delivery through technological integration, aiming to make personalized and efficient health services available to all.
Bara Kurdi is a Physician and Assistant Professor of Medicine specializing in Gastroenterology and Hepatology at the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine. Dr. Kurdi’s research primarily focuses on the pathophysiology of gastrointestinal and liver diseases, including the exploration of novel therapeutic strategies, including language models, for chronic conditions such as pancreatitis and neurofibromatosis-1. His expertise in both clinical medicine and biomedical research positions him at the intersection of patient care and cutting-edge scientific discovery. Dr. Kurdi’s work aims to bridge gaps in understanding gastrointestinal and hepatic disorders, contributing to the development of precision medicine approaches for improved patient outcomes.
Usama Syed is a dermatologist and entrepreneur with a passion for advancing healthcare through technology and innovation. As the Co-Founder of OpenClinic, he plays a pivotal role in leveraging cutting-edge solutions to improve patient care and streamline healthcare systems. Usama's medical expertise and entrepreneurial drive are centered around making dermatology more accessible and efficient, while also improving clinical outcomes. His work combines his deep understanding of dermatology with his commitment to integrating technological advancements into everyday medical practice, aiming to revolutionize patient experiences and outcomes in the field.
Dr. Patrick Sewell is an oncologist, interventional radiologist, and co-founder and chief scientist at TriplHelix. With a diverse background spanning interventional radiology, oncology, and gene therapy, Dr. Sewell's work in interventional oncology utilizes advanced imaging technologies and innovative pharmacological agents to address complex cancer cases. Dr. Sewell’s research efforts have led to the development of gene therapies that hold promise for revolutionizing cancer treatment, offering new options for so-called "untreatable" cancers and potentially enhancing existing therapies to achieve cures. In addition to his work in oncology, Dr. Sewell has advanced regenerative medicine, using stem cells, PRP, and peptides to treat various diseases, repair nerves, and restore organ function.
Dr. Chris Wareham is an assistant professor at the Ethics Institute of Utrecht University, specializing in applied ethics and bioethics. His research focuses on the ethical implications of aging and life extension, as well as emerging biotechnologies, often examined through the lens of African ethical systems. In this area of research, he edited The Cambridge Handbook of the Ethics of Ageing, which approaches the implications of aging for individual well-being, social policy, and social justice. In addition, he works on emerging biotechnologies and his published work often examines these through the lens of African ethical systems. His work aims to address ethical challenges related to aging, life extension, and biotechnology, with a particular interest in how these issues intersect with concepts of personhood and moral status in African philosophy.
Alexandru Băcița is a scientist and entrepreneur with extensive experience in drug discovery and development. He is the co-founder and Chief Operating Officer of The Cat Health Company (TCHC), a biotech startup dedicated to extending feline longevity through innovative therapies. Before co-founding TCHC, Alexandru served as a Senior Scientist at Charles River Laboratories, a leading provider of services for drug discovery and clinical trials. At TCHC, Alexandru focuses on developing computational pipelines to predict new therapies for rare diseases and age-related conditions in cats. His work aims to enhance feline health and longevity, providing pets with longer, healthier lives
Alan Tomusiak is a researcher specializing in the biology of aging, with a focus on epigenetics and immunology. For his PhD, he studied in the Verdin Lab at the Buck Institute for Research on Aging. His research focuses on developing novel epigenetic clocks that are resistant to changes in immune cell composition, aiming to improve the accuracy of biological age predictions. Alan has also explored the effects of senolytic compounds on DNA methylation clocks, contributing to the understanding of how these interventions may influence biological aging. Through his work, Alan aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms underlying aging and develop interventions to promote healthy longevity.
Dr. Michael Conboy is a researcher at the University of California, Berkeley, with over 20 years of experience in the field of aging and regenerative medicine. He works in the Conboy Laboratory alongside Dr. Irina Conboy, focusing on the molecular mechanisms that influence tissue repair and stem cell rejuvenation. Dr. Conboy's research has significantly contributed to the understanding of how aging affects stem cell function and tissue regeneration. Notably, his work on heterochronic parabiosis—joining the circulatory systems of young and old mice—has provided insights into the role of systemic factors in aging. This research suggests that aging is influenced by a balance of positive and negative factors in the blood, and that modifying these factors can promote tissue repair and rejuvenation. Through his research, Dr. Conboy aims to develop interventions that restore youthful regenerative potential, thereby promoting healthy aging and extending the human healthspan.
Eight Weeks
07.
Biostasis / May 16 - 22
++
Join us at Vitalist Bay Apr 4 - May 29
To start
For Businesses
For Enterprises
room + co-working + conf/events
conferences + events
Experience
Conferences & Events
CONNECT with others
Weekly thematic focus -- from Longevity Clinics and Doctors, to Biostasis and Biomarkers.
Top experts converge on our campus for conferences, workshops, and meetups.
Residents and co-working space members can self-organize community events.
Health Optimization
ELEVATE your health.
EAT healthy.
GET fit.
We're making it easy to be healthy.
Get your data with onsite biomarker diagnostics (Dexa Scan, VO2 max, biobanking).
Effortlessly eat healthy with our meal plan providers.
Stay committed with exercises and activities led by best-in-class instructors.
Free your body with dance and movement.
Co-working
WORK on aging together
Supercharge your productivity and collaboration in an energetic environment, with ambitious Vitalists fighting aging & death on all fronts.
Included in Vitalist Bay Passport.
Open to non-residents.
Co-living Residences
LIVE together
Vitalist Bay will take place at Lighthaven, a vibrant private campus in Berkeley, California -- just across the bridge from San Francisco.
The campus includes:
Lighthaven Campus, Berkeley California.
A beautifully designed environment for discussion, collaboration, and learning.
FAQ
What is Vitalist Bay?
Vitalist Bay is a pop-up longevity zone -- the biggest and most comprehensive Longevity event in history.
It serves as 3rd space for Vitalists in the Bay Area to co-work, co-live, deepen connections, host community events, and grow the revolution in the tech capital of the world.
But it's also an microcosm of what a longevity state would be like: A combined longevity-accelerating ecosystem, culture and environment.
Our template will enable longevity supporters everywhere to create local hubs and pop-up cities to spark the revolution to solve aging.
Who is Vitalist Bay for?
Vitalist Bay is for anybody who wants to live in great health for as long as possible. Health fans, scientists, entrepreneurs, activists, engineers, investors and builders who want to take action about aging & death.
Participants are welcome to bring spouses/families/kids!
Where is Vitalist Bay being held?
Vitalist Bay is taking place from Apr 4 - May 29, 2025 at the Lighthaven campus in Berkeley, California. (2740 Telegraph Ave, Berkeley, CA)
The space is designed for intimate collaboration and conversation, spanning a privately enclosed 5 buildings with interconnecting gardens and outdoor spaces.
The co-working space on campus has capacity for 120 seats and features a gym and a planned sauna.
How do I participate?
Due to limited availability, Vitalist Bay is accepting sign ups from invites only at this time.
We will be opening applications for the general public in the coming months, so sign up to be the first to get updates!
Do I need to live on site to participate?
No, you don't need to live in on-campus housing to participate in Vitalist Bay.
You can buy standalone access to the co-working space + all events with a Vitalist Bay Pass.
What will the programming be like?
The programming will be centred around weekly themes in solving aging through science and technology, as well as better practices -- everything from Biostasis, Biomarkers, Longevity Clinics, Replacement, and beyond.
There will also numerous self-organized community events, workshops, meetups, casual networking, dinners, etc.
Do I have to stay the entire two months?
No, you can live on campus for as short as 7 days to as long as the entire 2 months.
Co-working + event passes can be purchased for daily, weekly, or monthly
You can also attend specific events by paying for individual tickets.
However, initially we will be prioritizing longer duration co-living, co-working, and events passes.
How many people will there be at Vitalist Bay?
We can host up to 800+ people for conferences / events.
100+ seats for co-working.
70 people lodging in on-campus housing, of which we will set aside 30 spots for long-term residents (two months).
Are there grants or financial aid?
Yes. We have limited financial aid available to academics, early founders, and others in financial need who would still like to attend.
Please contact nathan@vitalism.io for more info.