VP of R&D Ensovi, inc Framingham, MA, United States
In the biotechnological pursuit of sustainable and efficient biomolecule production, the industry has been confined to a very limited repertoire of microbial species and only a few yeast species, ignoring the untapped diversity within the yeast kingdom, which encompasses over 15,000 species. HERlab stands at the forefront of a biotechnological revolution with a visionary project to transcend these limitations. Our initiative aims to screen an unprecedented library starting with more than 1,500 unexplored yeast species to establish a robust platform that identifies and optimizes superior, fit-for-purpose yeast expression systems tailored for the precision-fermentation of alternative proteins and other biomolecules. In this talk, we will dive into HERlab's strategic approach to unlock the full potential of yeast biodiversity, transforming them into the most versatile and sustainable micro-factories of the future. We'll explore cutting-edge screening techniques that evaluate yeasts for crucial industrial properties—efficiency, robustness, and scalability. Our goal is not just to expand the biotechnological toolbox but to revolutionize it, allowing for the precision-fermentation of a wide array of biomolecules—proteins, lipids, and small molecules—in a manner that significantly reduces emissions and enhances economic viability. Join us to discover how HERlab is mapping the future of protein production and beyond, blending sustainability with innovation for a positive societal and environmental impact.