Capella Kerst

Capella Kerst, Ph.D., is the CEO and Founder of geCKo Materials, specializing in the mass production of bio-inspired dry adhesives aimed at increasing efficiency for customers. As a S23 Founder Member at StartX, Capella is involved in one of the premier startup accelerator and founder communities for Stanford-affiliated entrepreneurs. Additionally, Capella played a significant role in founding LeadX at Stanford and served as a Ph.D. Candidate while conducting research on bio-inspired adhesives under Professor Mark Cutkosky. With a strong academic background that includes a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Stanford University, a Master's degree from UCLA, and a Bachelor's degree from the University of California, Berkeley, Capella's early experience includes roles at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and as a University Innovation Fellow, contributing to innovation and entrepreneurship within academic settings.