Switchback Systems

Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, Switchback Systems is a biotechnology firm focused on democratizing synthetic biology. The company was established in 2019 by Dr. Mary Noé, who also serves as the CEO. Switchback Systems aims to shift the paradigm from a service-based model to an in-house, on-demand capability for scientists.

The core of Switchback's business is its proprietary, deployable benchtop DNA synthesis platform. This self-contained, plug-and-play system provides researchers with both onboard oligonucleotide synthesis and gene assembly capabilities. By developing a highly scalable DNA synthesis process, the company seeks to significantly reduce the time, cost, and waste associated with traditional methods. This approach enables scientists across various fields—including pharmaceuticals, gene therapy, agriculture, and diagnostics—to synthesize DNA directly in their own labs.

Financially, Switchback Systems has secured significant backing to fuel its development and growth. The company emerged as the first portfolio company from the General Inception Venture Studio and has since garnered support from other venture capital firms such as OMX Ventures, Vertical Venture Partners, and Ahren Innovation Capital. It has raised a total of $18.3 million over two funding rounds, including a $7 million Series A in October 2021 and an $11.3 million Series B round in July 2024. This capital is being used to advance its technology and bring its benchtop DNA printer to the broader healthcare and life sciences industries.

Keywords: DNA synthesis, synthetic biology, benchtop DNA printer, gene assembly, oligonucleotide synthesis, scalable DNA platform, biotechnology tools, life sciences research, genetic engineering, laboratory automation, molecular biology, pharmaceuticals, agriculture technology, gene therapy research, diagnostics development, sustainable technology