DCVC

DCVC is a venture capital firm based in Palo Alto, California, founded in 2010. The firm specializes in investing in seed and early-stage companies across various sectors, including artificial intelligence, exascale computing, climate technology, engineering, materials science, robotics, space, water, biology, defense, and security. With a team of experienced venture capitalists, technology entrepreneurs, and engineers, DCVC has a proven track record, having invested in over 150 companies and achieved 40 significant exits. In 2018, the firm expanded its focus with the launch of DCVC Bio, which invests in early-stage startups in computational biology. This branch targets innovations in synthetic biology, medicine, and agriculture, emphasizing teams that leverage advancements in genetic sequencing, artificial intelligence, and automation to drive transformative changes in the life sciences. Both divisions of DCVC are committed to supporting entrepreneurs who are advancing technology and creating impactful solutions in their respective fields.

Zachary Bogue

Co-Founder and Managing Partner

Chris Boshuizen

Operating Partner

Jack Buendorf

Associate

Kelly Chen

Partner

Alan Cohen

General Partner

Michael Driscoll Ph.D

Founding Partner

Anna Fokina

Investment Director

John Hamer

Managing Partner

MayC Huang

Investor

Gloria Lau

Equity Partner

Patrick Mccauley

Operating Partner

Matt O'Connell

Operating Partner

Matthew Ocko

Co-Managing Partner and Co-Founder

Joe Oleynik

Associate

Luca Parolari

Senior Associate, DCVC Bio

Jason Pontin

Partner

Spencer Punter

Partner, COO

Kristen Rocca

Principal

Monica Rogati

Equity Partner

Merline Saintil

Operating Partner

Richard Waines

Associate, DCVC Bio

Past deals in Genetics

Evonetix

Series B in 2023
Evonetix Ltd is a biotechnology company based in Little Chesterford, United Kingdom, established in 2015. The company focuses on developing innovative technology for the parallel synthesis of DNA on silicon arrays, thereby advancing the field of synthetic biology. By employing novel techniques, Evonetix aims to synthesize DNA with higher accuracy and scale, which enhances accessibility for researchers. This platform enables scientists to utilize synthetic biology on a previously unattainable scale, fundamentally changing how DNA is accessed, produced, and utilized for gene synthesis. The engineering team at Evonetix boasts extensive experience in creating high-integrity automated systems, bringing together a diverse range of expertise from various scientific and engineering disciplines to support its mission.

Relation

Seed Round in 2022
Relation Therapeutics is a biotechnology company focused on advancing drug discovery and development. It utilizes human genetics and clinical omics data, alongside patient-derived tissue samples, to identify and validate therapeutic programs. The company employs machine learning to explore the relationships between genes, proteins, and drugs, generating insights that have real translational validity. By combining single-cell multi-omics from patient tissues with functional assays, Relation Therapeutics aims to deepen the understanding of biological processes in human health and disease. This approach enables healthcare providers to discover and develop novel treatments, particularly in areas with unmet medical needs.

Genedit

Series A in 2021
GenEdit Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Berkeley, California, established in 2016. It specializes in developing innovative genome editing technologies, particularly using the CRISPR/Cas9 system for therapeutic gene editing. The company focuses on addressing the challenges associated with the delivery of gene therapies through its proprietary non-viral nanoparticle-based delivery platform. This platform enables more efficient and accurate delivery of CRISPR components, enhancing the potential for curative treatments for genetic diseases. By systematically screening a library of nanoparticles, GenEdit aims to improve the safety and effectiveness of gene editing, making it a promising solution for a wide range of therapeutic applications.

Stemson Therapeutics

Series A in 2021
Stemson Therapeutics, LLC operates as a cell therapy company that helps to restore natural hair. The company produces cells required to regenerate hair follicles using the novel cell engineering process. Its products include the stemson solution, a solution that generates novo follicles using induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) to grow new Dermal Papilla. The company was founded in 2018 and is based in LA Jolla, California.

Evonetix

Series B in 2020
Evonetix Ltd is a biotechnology company based in Little Chesterford, United Kingdom, established in 2015. The company focuses on developing innovative technology for the parallel synthesis of DNA on silicon arrays, thereby advancing the field of synthetic biology. By employing novel techniques, Evonetix aims to synthesize DNA with higher accuracy and scale, which enhances accessibility for researchers. This platform enables scientists to utilize synthetic biology on a previously unattainable scale, fundamentally changing how DNA is accessed, produced, and utilized for gene synthesis. The engineering team at Evonetix boasts extensive experience in creating high-integrity automated systems, bringing together a diverse range of expertise from various scientific and engineering disciplines to support its mission.

Empirico

Series A in 2020
Empirico is a company focused on developing an insights platform that leverages biological insights derived from human genetics to create new medicines. Its platform utilizes biological datasets and programmable biology to facilitate target discovery and development. This enables scientists to systematically generate, examine, and prioritize high-confidence therapeutic hypotheses, ultimately advancing the field of drug development through innovative approaches grounded in human genetic research.

Novome Biotechnologies

Series A in 2020
Novome Biotechnologies, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in South San Francisco, California, that specializes in engineering bacteria from the human gut to address chronic diseases. Founded in 2015, the company has developed a platform for the controlled colonization of the gut with genetically engineered bacteria, known as Genetically Engineered Microbial Medicines (GEMMs). This innovative approach allows for sustained therapeutic interventions through the precise delivery of microbial activities. Novome's lead preclinical program targets hyperoxaluria by creating a therapeutic strain of bacteria aimed at degrading oxalate to help prevent kidney stone formation. The company is also expanding its synthetic biology platform to explore additional therapeutic applications.

Novome Biotechnologies

Series A in 2020
Novome Biotechnologies, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in South San Francisco, California, that specializes in engineering bacteria from the human gut to address chronic diseases. Founded in 2015, the company has developed a platform for the controlled colonization of the gut with genetically engineered bacteria, known as Genetically Engineered Microbial Medicines (GEMMs). This innovative approach allows for sustained therapeutic interventions through the precise delivery of microbial activities. Novome's lead preclinical program targets hyperoxaluria by creating a therapeutic strain of bacteria aimed at degrading oxalate to help prevent kidney stone formation. The company is also expanding its synthetic biology platform to explore additional therapeutic applications.

Empirico

Series A in 2019
Empirico is a company focused on developing an insights platform that leverages biological insights derived from human genetics to create new medicines. Its platform utilizes biological datasets and programmable biology to facilitate target discovery and development. This enables scientists to systematically generate, examine, and prioritize high-confidence therapeutic hypotheses, ultimately advancing the field of drug development through innovative approaches grounded in human genetic research.

Genedit

Seed Round in 2018
GenEdit Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Berkeley, California, established in 2016. It specializes in developing innovative genome editing technologies, particularly using the CRISPR/Cas9 system for therapeutic gene editing. The company focuses on addressing the challenges associated with the delivery of gene therapies through its proprietary non-viral nanoparticle-based delivery platform. This platform enables more efficient and accurate delivery of CRISPR components, enhancing the potential for curative treatments for genetic diseases. By systematically screening a library of nanoparticles, GenEdit aims to improve the safety and effectiveness of gene editing, making it a promising solution for a wide range of therapeutic applications.

Genedit

Seed Round in 2018
GenEdit Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Berkeley, California, established in 2016. It specializes in developing innovative genome editing technologies, particularly using the CRISPR/Cas9 system for therapeutic gene editing. The company focuses on addressing the challenges associated with the delivery of gene therapies through its proprietary non-viral nanoparticle-based delivery platform. This platform enables more efficient and accurate delivery of CRISPR components, enhancing the potential for curative treatments for genetic diseases. By systematically screening a library of nanoparticles, GenEdit aims to improve the safety and effectiveness of gene editing, making it a promising solution for a wide range of therapeutic applications.

Empirico

Series A in 2018
Empirico is a company focused on developing an insights platform that leverages biological insights derived from human genetics to create new medicines. Its platform utilizes biological datasets and programmable biology to facilitate target discovery and development. This enables scientists to systematically generate, examine, and prioritize high-confidence therapeutic hypotheses, ultimately advancing the field of drug development through innovative approaches grounded in human genetic research.

Empirico

Series A in 2018
Empirico is a company focused on developing an insights platform that leverages biological insights derived from human genetics to create new medicines. Its platform utilizes biological datasets and programmable biology to facilitate target discovery and development. This enables scientists to systematically generate, examine, and prioritize high-confidence therapeutic hypotheses, ultimately advancing the field of drug development through innovative approaches grounded in human genetic research.

Evonetix

Series A in 2018
Evonetix Ltd is a biotechnology company based in Little Chesterford, United Kingdom, established in 2015. The company focuses on developing innovative technology for the parallel synthesis of DNA on silicon arrays, thereby advancing the field of synthetic biology. By employing novel techniques, Evonetix aims to synthesize DNA with higher accuracy and scale, which enhances accessibility for researchers. This platform enables scientists to utilize synthetic biology on a previously unattainable scale, fundamentally changing how DNA is accessed, produced, and utilized for gene synthesis. The engineering team at Evonetix boasts extensive experience in creating high-integrity automated systems, bringing together a diverse range of expertise from various scientific and engineering disciplines to support its mission.

Asimov

Seed Round in 2017
Asimov, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, that specializes in designing and developing genetically engineered therapeutics. The company utilizes a platform for molecular manufacturing, which incorporates machine-learning algorithms to connect large-scale biological datasets with mechanistic models. Asimov programs living cells with genetic circuits, enabling the creation of innovative biotechnologies in partnership with its customers. Their capabilities include the manufacturing of protein biologics, viral vectors, and cell and gene therapies. Founded in 2017, Asimov leverages a combination of computer-aided design, artificial intelligence, and synthetic biology to advance its mission.

Cofactor Genomics

Series A in 2017
Cofactor Genomics is a biotechnology company focused on advancing precision medicine through predictive immune modeling. By leveraging its expertise in RNA sequencing and expression analysis, Cofactor aims to move beyond traditional single-analyte biomarkers to develop multidimensional biomarkers that enhance clinical insights. The company's platform examines RNA biomarkers linked to responses to targeted therapeutics, allowing biotechnology firms to create clinical diagnostic assays for oncology, immunology, and neurodegenerative diseases. With a CAP-certified clinical RNA sequencing laboratory and a suite of molecular, informatic, and database tools, Cofactor supports its partners in conducting more efficient and successful clinical trials, ultimately facilitating the commercialization of innovative therapeutic solutions.

Cofactor Genomics

Series A in 2017
Cofactor Genomics is a biotechnology company focused on advancing precision medicine through predictive immune modeling. By leveraging its expertise in RNA sequencing and expression analysis, Cofactor aims to move beyond traditional single-analyte biomarkers to develop multidimensional biomarkers that enhance clinical insights. The company's platform examines RNA biomarkers linked to responses to targeted therapeutics, allowing biotechnology firms to create clinical diagnostic assays for oncology, immunology, and neurodegenerative diseases. With a CAP-certified clinical RNA sequencing laboratory and a suite of molecular, informatic, and database tools, Cofactor supports its partners in conducting more efficient and successful clinical trials, ultimately facilitating the commercialization of innovative therapeutic solutions.

HelixNano

Convertible Note in 2017
HelixNano is a biotechnology company focused on leveraging artificial intelligence and synthetic biology to develop innovative solutions for genetic diseases. Initially concentrating on cancer vaccines, the company is now pivoting to create COVID-19 vaccine candidates that prioritize precision and safety. HelixNano's platform enables the reliable expression of transgenes in humans, facilitating advancements in gene therapies and genome engineering. The company aims to not only address the current COVID-19 pandemic but also to develop vaccines that provide protection against all future coronaviruses. Through its work, HelixNano seeks to enable previously unattainable applications in both human and non-human biology, ultimately improving patient outcomes across a range of diseases.

Molecular Assemblies

Venture Round in 2017
Molecular Assemblies, Inc. is a San Diego-based company that specializes in enzymatic DNA synthesis technology, which allows for the precise reading and writing of DNA. Founded in 2013, the company targets multiple markets, including life sciences, industrial applications, information storage, nanotechnology, and DNA electronics. Its innovative approach is inspired by natural processes and focuses on producing long, high-quality, sequence-specific DNA in a reliable, affordable, and sustainable manner. The company boasts a strong executive and scientific team and holds an extensive intellectual property portfolio. It has garnered investments from various notable entities, highlighting its potential to advance products in industrial synthetic biology, personalized therapeutics, and precision diagnostics.

Karius

Series A in 2017
Karius, Inc. is a life sciences company dedicated to generating genomic insights for infectious diseases. It offers the Karius Test, a non-invasive blood test that utilizes sequencing of microbial cell-free DNA to identify and quantify various pathogens, including bacteria, DNA viruses, fungi, and parasites. This test is particularly useful for diagnosing complicated pneumonia, infections in immunocompromised patients, and endocarditis. Karius also provides laboratory services for pathogen biomarker detection tailored for biopharmaceutical companies. Founded in 2014, the company is based in Redwood City, California, with an additional office in Menlo Park. Its laboratory holds CLIA certification and CAP accreditation, allowing it to conduct high-complexity clinical laboratory testing to support rapid clinical decision-making.

Sequence Bio

Seed Round in 2016
Sequence Bio is a biotechnology company based in Newfoundland and Labrador that focuses on leveraging genomics to enhance healthcare. The company is at the forefront of the NL Genome Project, which examines Newfoundland's distinct genetic characteristics by integrating multi-omic data with longitudinal health records. This initiative aims to improve the understanding, treatment, and prevention of diseases. Additionally, Sequence Bio is engaged in developing genome therapies that gather DNA and health information from unique isolated populations to address complex and inherited diseases. Through these efforts, the company seeks to transform drug discovery and improve patient outcomes.

Agenovir

Series A in 2016
Agenovir Corporation is focused on the research and development of antiviral therapeutics aimed at addressing diseases related to latent or persistent viral reservoirs. Established in 2014 and based in South San Francisco, California, the company employs innovative nucleases, including CRISPR/Cas9 technology, to target and disrupt viral DNA. This approach allows for the creation of a new class of nucleic acid-based antiviral treatments that aim to eliminate pathogenic viral genomes. Agenovir's mission is to provide effective solutions for healthcare providers treating patients suffering from severe and chronic viral infections, ultimately advancing the field of antiviral therapeutics. As of January 31, 2019, Agenovir operates as a subsidiary of Vir Biotechnology, Inc.

Cofactor Genomics

Seed Round in 2015
Cofactor Genomics is a biotechnology company focused on advancing precision medicine through predictive immune modeling. By leveraging its expertise in RNA sequencing and expression analysis, Cofactor aims to move beyond traditional single-analyte biomarkers to develop multidimensional biomarkers that enhance clinical insights. The company's platform examines RNA biomarkers linked to responses to targeted therapeutics, allowing biotechnology firms to create clinical diagnostic assays for oncology, immunology, and neurodegenerative diseases. With a CAP-certified clinical RNA sequencing laboratory and a suite of molecular, informatic, and database tools, Cofactor supports its partners in conducting more efficient and successful clinical trials, ultimately facilitating the commercialization of innovative therapeutic solutions.

Ginkgo Bioworks

Series B in 2015
Ginkgo Bioworks, founded in 2008 and based in Boston, Massachusetts, specializes in biological engineering by designing, developing, and licensing custom microbes and organisms. The company focuses on discovering and producing a variety of molecules for applications in flavors, sweeteners, cosmetic ingredients, crop treatments, and pharmaceuticals. Additionally, Ginkgo Bioworks offers probiotic bacteria aimed at protecting against harmful infections and creates libraries of molecules for various uses. Its market reach includes sectors such as cultured ingredients, carbon mitigation, probiotics, and natural product discovery.

One Codex

Seed Round in 2015
One Codex is a data platform focused on applied microbial genomics, offering bioinformatics solutions that facilitate applications in clinical diagnostics, food safety, and biosecurity. The company specializes in developing scalable and secure platforms for metagenomics and microbial genomics, emphasizing usability to cater to applied microbiologists. By providing access to a comprehensive microbial reference database, One Codex enables rapid and straightforward microbiome analysis, enhancing the capabilities of professionals in the field.

Ginkgo Bioworks

Series A in 2015
Ginkgo Bioworks, founded in 2008 and based in Boston, Massachusetts, specializes in biological engineering by designing, developing, and licensing custom microbes and organisms. The company focuses on discovering and producing a variety of molecules for applications in flavors, sweeteners, cosmetic ingredients, crop treatments, and pharmaceuticals. Additionally, Ginkgo Bioworks offers probiotic bacteria aimed at protecting against harmful infections and creates libraries of molecules for various uses. Its market reach includes sectors such as cultured ingredients, carbon mitigation, probiotics, and natural product discovery.

Karius

Seed Round in 2014
Karius, Inc. is a life sciences company dedicated to generating genomic insights for infectious diseases. It offers the Karius Test, a non-invasive blood test that utilizes sequencing of microbial cell-free DNA to identify and quantify various pathogens, including bacteria, DNA viruses, fungi, and parasites. This test is particularly useful for diagnosing complicated pneumonia, infections in immunocompromised patients, and endocarditis. Karius also provides laboratory services for pathogen biomarker detection tailored for biopharmaceutical companies. Founded in 2014, the company is based in Redwood City, California, with an additional office in Menlo Park. Its laboratory holds CLIA certification and CAP accreditation, allowing it to conduct high-complexity clinical laboratory testing to support rapid clinical decision-making.

Omniome

Seed Round in 2014
Omniome, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in San Diego, California, established in 2013. It specializes in developing a proprietary DNA sequencing platform that aims to deliver high accuracy in sequencing results. The company employs its Sequencing By Binding technology, which enhances nucleotide and DNA matching by utilizing the natural matching capabilities of polymerase. This innovative approach not only provides precise and rapid results but also offers a cost-effective solution, which has the potential to significantly advance cancer diagnostics. Omniome is backed by prominent life sciences venture investors and is focused on becoming a trusted leader in the field of clinical sequencing.

Moleculo

Seed Round in 2012
Moleculo is a biotech company that focuses on developing technologies for generating long reads for genome analysis tools. The company has developed a novel DNA sequencing method that provides long and accurate reads, thereby improving the efficiency and accuracy of many existing DNA sequencing applications, enabling clients to get a range of new applications.
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