Dr Michael Baker is the CEO & Managing Director of Arovella Therapeutics (ASX: ALA), a pre-clinical stage company developing personalised therapies for oncology, including cell therapies. He has a deep background in scientific research, drug development and venture investing in the life sciences sector.

At Arovella, Michael manages teams in Australia and America. Michael has led the strategy development at Arovella, including licensing technologies from world-class universities and research institutes, initiating and managing pre-clinical studies, capital raising and business development.

Previously, Michael had a distinguished career as a research scientist, where his research led to numerous high-impact research publications. He previously led early-stage biotechnology research programs, guiding them toward clinical trials. He also leveraged his skills in scientific research and drug development to uncover emerging and commercially viable technologies for investment.

Michael completed his PhD in Biochemistry at La Trobe University, and his thesis received the Nancy Millis award for the best thesis for the faculty of Science Technology and Engineering. Michael completed his MBA at Melbourne Business School in 2018 and received an MBS award for Distinction.