Anne Cheever, Ph.D. is an emerging technology executive and national security leader with over a decade of experience advancing high-impact research, policy, and innovation at the intersection of space, defense, and biotechnology. She is widely recognized for her ability to translate cutting-edge science into operational capability while shaping responsible approaches to emerging and dual-use technologies.

Dr. Cheever has developed, led, and managed more than $380 million in federal R&D investments, most notably as a Program Manager in the Biological Technologies Office at DARPA (Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency), where she conceived and launched the agency’s first biomanufacturing-in-space program. Her work helped validate biotechnology as a viable manufacturing paradigm for space logistics and resilience, while also advancing research in operations for space, synthetic biology, and military medicine.

From 2023 to 2024, Dr. Cheever served at the White House on the National Security Council as Director for Technology and National Security, coordinating U.S. government policy on critical and emerging technologies. In this role, she advised senior White House leadership and the National Security Adviser, contributing to an Executive Order and new national strategies, and built international partnerships with allies including the UK, Canada, Japan, South Korea, and India.

She currently holds multiple advisory and research roles, including in the commercial space sector, as an Adjunct Staff Member at RAND, and Founder of Vela Scientific, LLC, where she supports innovation across space, biodefense, and national security. 

Dr. Cheever is known for her strategic vision, collaborative leadership, and commitment to advancing technologies that strengthen U.S. and global security.