Dr. Krishna M. Ella is a pioneering scientist, entrepreneur, and visionary leader in global vaccine innovation and food technology. He is the Founder and Chairman of Bharat Biotech International Limited (BBIL), established in 1996 following his Ph.D. in Molecular Biology from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and over fourteen years of research and teaching experience in the United States.

His leadership has driven the development of multiple world-first and India-first vaccines, including:

• ROTAVAC® – India’s first indigenously developed Rotavirus vaccine
• Typbar TCV® – the world’s first Typhoid Conjugate Vaccine
• COVAXIN® – India’s first indigenous COVID-19 vaccine
• iNCOVACC® – the world’s first intranasal COVID-19 vaccine

He has also pioneered Zika and Chikungunya vaccine candidates (in clinical trials), spearheaded the creation of the Odisha Biotech Park—one of India’s largest vaccine facilities—and launched the nation’s first vertically integrated Cell & Gene Therapy Viral Production Facility in Hyderabad for rare and genetic disease treatment.

Beyond industry, Dr. Ella plays a key role in shaping India’s science and innovation policies, serving on over 15 national committees and advisory boards. His global influence extends through leadership roles in health, biotechnology, and agricultural innovation.

His contributions have been recognised with numerous prestigious awards, including:

• Padma Bhushan (2022) – India’s third-highest civilian honour
• Dean’s Medal (2025) – Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
• INSA Award (2025) – Indian National Science Academy

He holds six honorary doctorates, including from the University of Wisconsin–Madison, and continues to drive advancements in global health through a unique blend of scientific excellence, entrepreneurial vision, and policy leadership.