Steven Witte
In our alumni spotlight series, learn about KU Biology graduates' most meaningful experiences from college, and how The University of Kansas impacted their professional and personal paths after graduation.
Degree & Year: Biology, 1994
Job Title & Company: Director - Biologics Development Module (BDM), USDA National Bio & Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF)
Tell us about what fills your time now? Professionally and otherwise?
As the BDM Director, my time is spent managing staff, collaborating with the scientists at NBAF and our research partners, determining the strategic scientific direction of the BDM, and spreading the word about NBAF and the BDM at various conferences and stakeholder events around the country. When not working, I enjoy reading, movies and spending time with my family and two grandsons, ages 4 and 2.
Describe your path from KU to your current position.
My first job in science after graduation was at the Kansas State University Veterinary Diagnostic Lab, working in the Virus Serology section. After 4 years at the VDL and earning my MS in Veterinary Pathobiology, I joined Pfizer Animal Health in Connecticut, where I worked in vaccine development for livestock and companion animals. During this time, my job took me to Michigan, and I continued improving my knowledge of analytical and process development for vaccines. After about 15 years at Pfizer Animal Health (which became Zoetis), I moved on to Elanco Animal Health in Greenfield, Indiana, where I expanded my vaccine experience into poultry and fish vaccines. Later, I was given the opportunity to lead a group of analytical and process development scientists working on vaccines and biotherapeutics. At the end of 2020, I applied to be the director of the Biologics Development Module at NBAF, and I started that role in August of 2021.
How did your academic experience at KU prepare you for your professional life?
KU prepared me for my career by giving me a solid foundation in basic biology, chemistry, and science that I still use today. My coursework also prepared me to think critically and communicate complex ideas clearly, which has served me well throughout my career.
What was a favorite class you took and why?
One of my favorite courses was Human Genetics, which I have always found fascinating. Studying the causes and extent of human variation and the foundations of our biology was very interesting. Before I found my way into veterinary vaccinology, I assumed I would pursue a career in genetic counseling.
What extracurricular activities were you involved in, if any?
I was involved in residence hall governance during my time at KU. My friends and I also enjoyed attending football and basketball games, playing board games and going to midnight movies in the student union.
Do you have a favorite KU memory?
One of my favorite memories at KU was walking down the hill, through the Campanile, during graduation. The entire weekend was a fantastic experience, and the feeling of accomplishment I felt during that walk was great.
Did you have any research/internship opportunities and/or professor/mentor relationships that influential?
Dr. Dean Stetler was my academic advisor, as well as the Chair of the Undergraduate Biology program. He was an excellent mentor. I was also influenced by Drs. Ken and Sally Mason, two inspiring professors and mentors in the biological sciences.
What advice do you have for current or prospective University of Kansas students?
Enjoy your time at KU and learn as much as you can! Your job while you're at the university is to explore new knowledge, find what inspires you and learn as much as you can about yourself and how you want to make your mark on the world. The time I spent at KU made me the person I am today, and I always look back fondly at that time. You'll never have another time like this in your life, so make the most of it!
Why should a KU undergraduate consider majoring in biology?
Biology has given me a very satisfying and rewarding career. Biology is the foundation of so many fields, from medicine to agriculture, that are so important to create a better world for all of us. I really enjoyed studying biology at KU and have always been grateful for the opportunities that it has provided me
Rock Chalk! Go Jayhawks!
-Steven Witte