Private Access Only

1. A Legacy of Discovery

Keith’s journey began with a childhood curiosity about the molecular world, a dream that became a reality during his Ph.D. work at UC San Diego. There, he helped identify the gene responsible for firefly bioluminescence. This foundational breakthrough became a cornerstone of modern life-science research, providing the fundamental tools now used globally for drug discovery and molecular analysis.

After decades of developing these essential tools for the pharmaceutical industry, Keith is now extending that expertise into a new frontier. By transitioning to ornamental horticulture, he is moving synthetic biology from the purely practical to the extraordinary, harmonizing the natural glow of bioluminescent fungi with the living energy of nature.

2. Rooted in Nature

Beyond the laboratory, Keith’s inspiration is deeply rooted in his personal life. He and his wife recently relocated to the Mountain West, embracing a lifestyle attuned to the rugged beauty of the natural world. Whether he is hiking alpine trails or observing the quiet shift of the seasons, Keith finds balance in the environment he strives to protect and celebrate. This connection to nature fuels his work at Light Bio, where he creates "living art" that invites people to slow down and form a renewed relationship with the biological world.

“Science can be more than merely pragmatic; it can bring beauty and enjoyment into our lives. That’s the essence of Light Bio, enriching our experience of the world.” — Dr. Keith Wood

3. Shaping the Global Dialogue

Keith’s unique perspective on bioethics and innovation has made him a sought-after voice on the global stage:

Thailand, May 2026
XXIII ISBC & XXI ISLS

Participating in a special session at VISTEC’s joint symposium to reflect on the evolution of luminescence—from past breakthroughs to the next frontier of science and industry.

Stanford, Apr 2026
Hoover Institution

Bio Leadership Summit

Contributed to the inaugural summit focused on shaping policy and leadership frameworks for the burgeoning biotech era.

Paris, Oct 2025
iGEM Grand Jamboree

Delivered the keynote address to the next generation of synthetic biologists, emphasizing the importance of creativity in science.

Washington, DC, Sep 2025
AmericanHort Impact

Discussed the future of horticulture and how "living light" is redefining the global industry.

San Jose, May 2025
SynBioBeta

Featured as a session speaker on "Nature 2.0," discussing how Light Bio leverages biotechnology to enhance, rather than replace, the natural world.

4. Designing Living Art for Personal Spaces

Light Bio’s flagship product, the Firefly Petunia, leverages advanced synthetic biology to harmonize fungal bioluminescence with the metabolic energy of plants. This produces a soft, moonlit luminescence that is entirely self-sustaining, requiring no batteries or wires, while providing entirely new market opportunities for growers and retailers.

Ultimately, Keith aims to inspire fascination and provide a living antidote to our fast-paced digital world. His work invites a deeper appreciation for the biological world, proving that the most advanced science can also be a source of enchanting, everyday beauty.

5. Legacy and Advancement

40+ Years
Expertise in bioluminescence research and technology development.

200+ Issued Patents
Spanning molecular engineering and chemical biology.

The Architect of Light
Pioneer of the first genetic tools for bioluminescent imaging used in global pharmaceutical research.

Market Transformation
Blending technology with aesthetics to create new opportunities for the horticulture industry.

Consumer Milestone
Bridging 40 years of lab science to create the first “living light” for the home and garden.

Keith Wood, Ph.D.

Light Bio CEO & Co-Founder

Contact information for business, partnership, media, and speaking inquiries:

Email keith.wood@light.bio
Phone +1-608-556-2835
Keith Wood LinkedIn LinkedIn


Light Bio, Inc. 151 4th Str W Unit 60,
Ketchum, ID 83340, USA
Website light.bio
LinkedIn LinkedIn
X/Twitter @Light_Bio
Instagram @Light.Bio