Biography

Cofounder and CEO, 23andMe

Anne Wojcicki co-founded 23andMe after a decade in healthcare investing and serves as CEO. The company’s mission is to help people access, understand, and benefit from the human genome. Commercial and academic researchers benefit from 23andMe’s genetics-based research approach, which can help accelerate discovery to bring about new treatments and cures. Under Wojcicki’s leadership, the company has made significant advances in bringing personalized medicine to the public.

Q&A

What's your first health-related memory?

I am blessed to have been born at Kaiser Permanente and raised by Kaiser Permanente doctors. I saw my pediatrician until I was 25 and have had the good fortune of staying in touch with him (and now taking my kids to Kaiser Permanente). What I remember most is that my doctor taught me to take care of myself and taught me to understand my body when I was sick and when I was well.

What inspires you in your work?

What inspires me most in my work at 23andMe is our ability to have a meaningful impact on a person’s life. Over the last 10 years, we have heard amazing stories: people learning about their ancestral roots, finding family members, or learning something life-changing about their health.

What's the most important quality for a doctor to have?

The most important quality for a doctor to have is respect and the ability to listen to the patient’s thoughts and input. Patients know their body best, and it’s important for physicians to partner with them in solving their health problems.

What's your secret talent?

Ice skating! I have been skating since I was 3, and I still get out on the ice regularly.

A headshot of Anne Wojcicki