Microbial Might Meets National Security
Cultivarium’s strategy to harness biology, build infrastructure, and cultivate talent for America’s future.
Over the last 3 years, I’ve connected with members of the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology (NSCEB) to discuss the intersection between biotechnologies and national security.
I’m pleased to see that NSCEB's final published recommendation aligns with several of Cultivarium's aims, and we're prepared to accelerate our efforts to secure America's lead in emerging biotechnologies.
In support of the report's key recommendations, Cultivarium is advancing in three strategic areas:
1. Expanding Biological Capabilities
We're developing the unique expertise to harness the millions of microbes that can be used for producing new materials, breaking down unwanted chemicals, and creating targeted therapies. We’re now working to program over 300 different bacteria, each with unique capabilities, which far exceeds the handful used today in most of academia and industry. Stay tuned - we’ll be announcing a new multi-year effort in the coming weeks to tackle a new kingdom of life!
2. Building Foundational Infrastructure
We've been busy building a suite of tools– molecular techniques, computational platforms, and bespoke hardware– as enabling technologies for life scientists. We’ve been able to bring down the time and cost of engineering a new-to-the-lab microbe by >10-fold, compressing research from months to days. We’re working with select partners to access our technologies and we’re excited to see their applications mature in both the academic and industrial ecosystem. Reach out for access!
3. Cultivating Biotechnology Talent
Our team draws expertise from microbiology, molecular biology, computational biology, and engineering. But it’s our shared fervor about the knowledge and beneficial outcomes we can unlock that drives our high velocity of progress. We've prioritized knowledge transfer and resource sharing with students and early-career researchers to invest in developing the next generation of biotechnologists who will create breakthrough innovations and essential products. Engage with our outreach programs!
Cultivarium was designed to bridge the gap between fundamental research and real-world applications. Our unique position in the ecosystem enables us to develop long-term strategic priorities for an entire scientific field, rather than being influenced by short-term academic or commercial pressures. We’ve been able to accomplish all this with the visionary and generous support of Convergent Research.
We're committed to positioning biotechnology as a force for positive global impact, and we look forward to hearing from everyone who shares this goal.