Emil D. Kakkis, M.D., Ph.D., is a distinguished figure in the biotechnology industry, currently serving as the President and Chief Executive Officer of Ultragenyx Pharmaceutical Inc. Dr. Kakkis is a pioneering genetic medicine expert with a robust academic and professional background. He earned his M.D. and Ph.D. from the University of California, San Francisco, where he specialized in pediatric endocrinology and metabolism. His academic journey laid a solid foundation for his future endeavors in the field of rare disease treatment and genetic therapies. Before founding Ultragenyx in 2010, Dr. Kakkis held significant roles that shaped his expertise and leadership in the biotechnology sector. He notably served as the Senior Vice President of Worldwide Medical Affairs and as the Chief Medical Officer at BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc., where he played a pivotal role in the development and commercialization of therapies for rare genetic disorders. His leadership and vision were instrumental in bringing several groundbreaking treatments to market, significantly impacting the lives of patients with rare diseases. At Ultragenyx, Dr. Kakkis has continued to drive innovation and growth, leading the company to become a leader in the development of novel therapies for rare and ultra-rare genetic diseases. Under his stewardship, Ultragenyx has successfully advanced a diverse portfolio of treatments, including the first approved therapy for X-linked hypophosphatemia and the first approved treatment for achondroplasia. Dr. Kakkis's contributions extend beyond his corporate roles; he is a passionate advocate for the rare disease community. He has been recognized with numerous awards for his work, including the Corporate Leadership Award from the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) and the Humanitarian Award from the Little People of America. His dedication to improving patient outcomes and advancing scientific knowledge has solidified his reputation as a leader not only within Ultragenyx but also within the broader biotechnology and rare disease communities.