South Dakota Biotech Board of Directors Spotlight

Jeff Heikes is the Senior Vice President of POET Research where he leads biotechnology and science research for POET in Sioux Falls. He also oversees the operations of the POET Research Center in Scotland, South Dakota and the POET Bioproducts Center in Brookings, South Dakota on the South Dakota State University campus.

Heikes joined POET in June 2002 and has served the organization in multiple roles since then. Prior to leading POET’s research business unit, Heikes had leadership roles in plant operations, engineering, and project management. He was also a key leader in the design, construction, and operations of POET’s cellulosic bioethanol plant in Emmetsburg, Iowa.

Prior to joining POET, Heikes held various roles in corn wet milling in Nebraska. Heikes received a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering from South Dakota School of Mines. He is also a registered Professional Engineer in South Dakota.

He resides in Sioux Falls with this wife and two children.

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