Philip A. Rea is professor of biology and Rebecka and Arie Belldegrun Distinguished Director of the Roy and Diana Vagelos Program in Life Sciences & Management at the University of Pennsylvania. His research as a plant biochemist explores membrane transport and cellular detoxification processes. As a science writer, he addresses the challenges of translating fundamental discoveries in the life sciences into beneficial real-world applications. He is an elected American Association for the Advancement of Science Fellow recognized for his innovative research and contributions to science education.