When it comes to bacteria, Amanda Burkardt means business.
As the CEO of PHIOGEN, an innovative biotech venture and a spin-off from TAILOR Labs at Baylor College of Medicine, this Price alum is working to combat the most deadly antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections. Her journey began in animal science but shifted towards biotech and eventually led her to molecular biology with a focus on alternative antibiotics. Choosing to pursue her research as a startup, Burkardt knew she needed to take her career to the next level, so she sought OU’s Price College of Business M.B.A./M.S. in M.I.T. dual-degree program.
As a first-generation college student, Burkardt draws inspiration and work ethic from her parents. With just a small loan from a woman at church, her Oklahoma parents took a leap of faith, quitting their jobs to start a roofing-supply business in a dilapidated two-car garage. That business has since grown to become the largest independently-owned shingle supply company.
This instilled in Burkardt the belief that the future is shaped by one’s determination.
Burkardt focused her determination at Price College on life-changing bacterial research, but she also had a life-changing encounter of her own — she met her future husband.
Price College recently spoke with Burkart to learn more about her remarkable story and her business of healthcare: