Banu Cole possesses extensive experience in the biotechnology and aviation sectors. Serving as Senior Program Director at HemoShear Therapeutics since March 2012, Banu has held various leadership roles, contributing to the company's discovery-stage biotechnological initiatives. In addition, Banu is a partner and pilot at Skyline Heli, providing helicopter training and tours in Virginia. A participant in NASA's HERA Campaign as a backup crew member, Banu has also been active in promoting female representation in aviation through the role of Scholarship Director for Whirly-Girls International. Previously, Banu worked as an Adjunct Instructor at Eastern Virginia Medical School, focusing on research related to metabolic dysfunction, and held a postdoctoral fellowship at the same institution, investigating the link between adipose tissue and diabetes. Banu holds a PhD in Cell Biology from Harvard Medical School and a BS in Biology from William & Mary.