​🔋 You’re never truly alone—your cells are full of ancient bacteria trying to keep you alive.

​Meet your mitochondria: microscopic symbionts that moved in over a billion years ago and never left. They're best known as the cell’s powerplants, but these tiny organelles are far more than energy factories. From shaping human evolution to influencing how we age—and even inspiring the next wave of biotech—mitochondria are quickly becoming one of the most fascinating frontiers in science.

​In this talk, Stanford bioengineer Chris Mathy will unravel the untold story of mitochondria: what they are, what they do, and why they might hold the keys to longer life, stronger cells, and synthetic biology breakthroughs.

​If you’re curious about the tiny forces that shape your energy, health, and future—this one’s for you. 🧬✨

​❓FAQs❓

​​​What should I expect?

​​​7:00-7:40 --> arrival & chats

​​​7:40-8:20 --> lecture

​​​8:20-9:00 --> q&a and more chatting

​​​Who's invited?

​​​Anyone with an interest in learning new things, meeting new people, and doing fun things on weeknights! Lots of people came solo to our last event, so don't be afraid to do the same—you’ll meet some awesome people!

​​​What about parking?

​​​There's no parking on-site, so we recommend street parking or using public transportation.

​Do I have to be 21+?

​No :) This venue is open to all ages.

​​​What about refunds?

​You can refund your ticket up to 24 hours before the event starts. Since this is a limited-space event, we encourage you to update your RSVP if you can’t make it—this helps us keep spots open for others. NOTE - you do NOT need to email us for a refund, we will issue one within 48 hours upon changing your RSVP to "Not Going" :)

​​​I can't make it to this event. How do I stay updated for future events?

​​Join our email list! https://forms.gle/GQdDjd2UTV48F5Z17

​​​Follow our Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/bigbrainsf/

​​​How do I become a speaker?

​​​Email bigbrainsanfrancisco@gmail.com with your name, a brief description of who you are, and what you're passionate about / researching.

​​What about the ticket structure? 💸

​​Every ticket sold goes directly back into the business. However, we want to make our events accessible to everyone. If cost is a barrier, please reach out for financial assistance by emailing bigbrainsanfrancisco@gmail.com.​

​​Thanks for supporting our growing mission!

​​​*For any other questions or special accommodations, please email bigbrainsanfrancisco@gmail.com.