What do we do?

Trident Bioscience is building software to help make better proteins for industrial applications faster. We combine machine learning models of protein function with convex optimization methods for DNA sequence design to expedite the discovery and optimization of these proteins.

How do we do it?

Our predictive models are built upon years of experimental data to understand the link between a protein’s amino acid sequence, its structure, and its function. We use these models to predict protein variants that are most likely to improve a protein’s function for a specific application, such as improving its binding affinity (stickiness), thermal stability (heat tolerance), or enzymatic turnover rate (activity). We then apply our state-of-the-art DNA sequence optimization algorithm to design gene libraries to test these candidates extremely quickly and affordably. By combining these technologies, we're closing the design-build-test loop of protein optimization and cutting the total cycle time necessary to help bring synthetic proteins to market.

Why do we do it?

Proteins are life’s Swiss army knife. By stringing only 20 different amino acids together in various ways, organisms have created proteins that range in function from binding and neutralizing the SARS-CoV2 virus to breaking down unnatural chemicals like plastics in the environment. Unfortunately, there is no clearly understood set of principles for engineering a protein to perform a specific task. Instead, we must learn from all the data we have collected about their form and function to create new proteins for new applications. We believe that protein engineering will unlock greener chemistries and more effective therapeutics, but first we have to do better than simple trial and error.

Who are we?

We are a small, pre-seed company built on the technology that Tyler, the founder and CEO, designed during his PhD at Stanford. Tyler has an undergraduate degree in Biology from the University of Utah and a PhD in Genetics from Stanford University. He has worked on projects ranging from running C. elegans genetic screens to building machine learning models of protein interactions. He has co-authored 8 peer-reviewed publications.

We are looking to build out our founding team to strengthen our software for the first applications of our technology.

Where are we located?

We are located in the San Francisco Bay Area, but are open to remote employees in the US at our current stage.

Who are our customers?

We have a number of ongoing projects with companies ranging in size from small start-ups to a top 10 pharmaceutical company.

Who are we looking to employ?

We are looking for motivated and independent engineers who can shape the early culture and practices of our company. Strong software engineering skills are required, as is an interest in biology, biochemistry, and/or chemistry. Experience working in the life sciences is preferred, but not required. As a founding team member, you can expect to wear a lot of hats, have a fair amount of freedom and flexibility in your work, and have an impact that will be felt well into the future of our company.