From Yeast Genetics to a Nobel Prize: Randy Schekman
MCBcDNA is pleased to welcome Dr. Randy Schekman, 2013 Nobel Laureate in Physiology or Medicine, Professor of Molecular and Cell Biology at the University of California, Berkeley, and Investigator at the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, for a fireside chat on scientific discovery, cell biology, and the future of biomedical research.
Dr. Schekman has spent his career investigating the fundamental mechanisms that govern how cells function. After earning his PhD in Biochemistry at Stanford University and completing postdoctoral research at UC San Diego, he joined the faculty at UC Berkeley in 1976. His pioneering work in yeast revealed the genetic and molecular machinery responsible for vesicle transport within cells, discoveries that earned him the 2013 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, shared with James Rothman and Thomas Südhof. His research has helped establish fundamental principles of protein trafficking and secretion, with implications for understanding human disease. Beyond his laboratory, Dr. Schekman has served as Editor-in-Chief of PNAS and founding Editor-in-Chief of eLife. He currently leads scientific efforts through Aligning Science Across Parkinson’s to advance research into the molecular mechanisms underlying Parkinson’s disease.
In this conversation, we’ll discuss Dr. Schekman’s journey from fundamental discoveries in yeast to Nobel Prize-winning science, how curiosity-driven basic research can transform our understanding of human biology and disease, and the importance of supporting bold scientific inquiry. We’ll also explore his current work on extracellular vesicles and Parkinson’s disease, the evolving landscape of scientific publishing, and his perspective on what it takes to build a lasting career in research.
Agenda
7:30 PM — Doors open
7:40–7:45 PM — Welcome & introductions
7:45–8:15 PM — Presentation from Randy Schekman
8:15–8:30 PM — Audience Q&A
8:30–9:00 PM — Networking reception with food & drinks
Series Partner: Biocom California
Biocom California is the largest life science association in the state, and through its Biocom Institute it works to connect students and emerging talent with careers across biotech and the life sciences. Learn more at biocom.org.
Event Partner: LSBE
We're proud to have UC Berkeley's Robinson Life Science, Business, and Entrepreneurship (LSBE) Program as a partner for our Fall 2026 Speaker Series. The LSBE Program prepares students to become future leaders in biotech by combining business and biological sciences with mentorship, career coaching, and connections across the Bay Area life science ecosystem. Learn more at lsbe.berkeley.edu.
Event Partner: UC Berkeley Master of Biotechnology
MCB's Master of Biotechnology program is a one-year, accelerated program with the goal of preparing you for the next stage of your career through hands-on coursework, professional development, and a semester-long biotech internship. While it is still a relatively new program, it has already had a successful first two years with alumni now working in companies ranging from small stealth mode startups to large companies such as Genentech. They are excited to continue to create opportunities for future students. Come chat with them to learn more about their program!