Nikolas Gaio recently joined the Planet B.io team as Science & Innovation manager, contributing to the success of Planet B.io by shaping and managing all activities related to science, technology and innovation. Nikolas holds a PhD in Biomedical Engineering from Delft University of Technology and has seven years of entrepreneurial experience. He co-founded Bi/ond Solutions, where he served as CTO, leading the development of organ-on-chips for research organizations and pharmaceutical companies to enable more precise drug testing.
Nikolas brings extensive and valuable experience in innovation management and scouting, with a strong track record of bringing deep-tech solutions to market.
Why did you say yes to joining Planet B.io?
"What truly convinced me were the entrepreneurs at Planet B.io and their deep commitment to impact. I am genuinely inspired by the ecosystem of ambitious founders and breakthrough technologies. These startups are not just building companies; they are challenging the status quo and disrupting established industries with deep-tech solutions that aim to make the world healthier and more sustainable. Being surrounded by people who combine scientific excellence with purpose-driven entrepreneurship made saying yes an easy decision."
What inspired you to study Biomedical engineering?
"I have always been fascinated by the complexity of living organisms and the vast unknowns of life itself. The idea that by understanding biological systems better, we can improve the quality of life for millions of people was a strong motivation for me. At the same time, I was driven by the possibility of developing technologies to reduce animal exploitation.
Biomedical Engineering offered the perfect bridge between my engineering background and life sciences, allowing me to work on solutions that contribute to healthier people while promoting more ethical products."
“These startups are not just building companies; they are challenging the status quo and disrupting established industries with deep-tech solutions that aim to make the world healthier and more sustainable.”
How was your encounter with the business world?
"After completing my PhD, I stepped directly into entrepreneurship. Bringing deep-tech innovations from the lab to the market comes with a steep learning curve, something I am sure many entrepreneurs at Planet B.io can relate to. I quickly realized that great technology alone is not enough; understanding customers, markets, funding, and team dynamics is equally critical."
What makes you all excited about supporting entrepreneurs?
"What excites me most is the enormous potential of the biotech sector in the Netherlands. I truly believe we are only at the beginning of what is possible, especially with the strong scientific foundation and collaborative culture we have. Delft, in particular, has a unique combination of world-class research, talent, and entrepreneurial ambition. Supporting founders in this environment means contributing to innovations that can have global impact."
What is a piece of key advice that you’d like to share with every new founder?
"Focus on your team. Find the best partners in crime to share both the pain and the wins, and make sure you truly enjoy the journey together. I know firsthand what founders go through: the sleepless nights, the adrenaline rollercoasters, the moments of doubt, and sometimes even tears. Having the right people by your side makes all the difference, not just for building a successful company, but for surviving and enjoying the experience along the way.
From my first few days at Planet B.io, I already felt that I had found a team I am excited to share this next phase of my journey with!"