Phylagen Tracks Indoor Microbiomes for Return to Work

Navigating Safe Return to Workspaces During and Post-Pandemic

As the global pandemic enters its third year, organizations worldwide are grappling with the complexities of safely resuming in-person operations. Recent decisions, such as Apple postponing its office return date, highlight these challenges. Simultaneously, Google has communicated plans to require employees to return to the office three days a week, coupled with a vaccination mandate for continued employment.

Google emphasized the importance of vaccination in a statement to CNBC, asserting that it is “one of the most important ways we can keep our workforce safe and keep our services running.” However, even with vaccination, the potential for infection from coronavirus variants remains a concern.

Introducing Phylagen: Pathogen Monitoring Through Microbial Genomics

Phylagen, a San Francisco-based company established seven years ago, offers a unique solution. They leverage microbial genomics and data analytics to determine if a space has been occupied by someone with Covid-19.

The company’s methodology involves a network of sensors, swabs, and sample collectors. Materials are collected twice weekly and shipped to a central laboratory for analysis. Within 72 hours, Phylagen provides data indicating the presence of pathogens within a building, categorized by floors and zones, and assesses the safety of the air quality.

The Science Behind “Enterprise Pathogen Monitoring as a Service”

Phylagen describes its offering as “enterprise pathogen monitoring as a service.” This concept has long been a point of interest for founder and CEO Jessica Green, who possesses a background in both civil engineering and microbiome science.

Green explains that humans spend approximately 90% of their time indoors, often unaware of the microorganisms present in the air. She notes that individuals constantly emit and inhale countless viruses, bacteria, and molds, which can significantly impact health and well-being. Public awareness of this has increased dramatically due to the pandemic.

From Supply Chain Tracking to Indoor Air Quality

Initially, Phylagen focused on supply chain track-and-trace, ensuring product integrity and preventing tampering, particularly crucial in industries like pharmaceuticals.

As the pandemic evolved and it became clear that aerosol transmission was a primary concern, Phylagen strategically shifted its focus. The company applied its existing technology and expanding database of microorganisms to assess indoor environments, capturing and digitizing microbial information for its customers.

Rapid Growth and Strategic Investment

Phylagen is experiencing substantial growth, with co-founder Harrison Dillon, previously of Solazyme, reporting significant business expansion. The company is collaborating with numerous large technology firms and commercial real estate companies.

Revenue has increased tenfold year-over-year, and the team has grown from 20 to 40 employees. Phylagen intends to double its workforce, supported by recent strategic funding from Johnson Controls, a major producer of building systems.

To date, Phylagen has secured $30 million in funding from investors including 3M, Breakout Ventures, and Cultivian Sandbox.

Addressing Competition and Future Developments

Green acknowledges the emergence of competitors in this evolving market. She believes that demand for healthy indoor air will drive innovation and replace outdated air quality measurement methods.

While current results take up to 72 hours, Phylagen aims to reduce this timeframe. Green envisions a future where automated, on-site testing, similar to CO2 sensors or smart thermostats, can detect airborne DNA and RNA.

Expanding Beyond Covid-19

Phylagen’s capabilities extend beyond Covid-19 detection. The company plans to incorporate allergen testing into its services.

Early investor 3M is exploring the development of consumer products based on Phylagen’s technology. A home cleanliness kit utilizing Phylagen’s technology was launched in September, though its current price point limits its accessibility for most homeowners.

Focus on Enterprise Solutions

Despite the potential for consumer applications, Green emphasizes that Phylagen’s primary focus remains on serving its enterprise clients. The company is currently prioritizing meeting the high demand within the commercial building sector.

“The most relevant and the largest market opportunity and the biggest market need right now is the commercial building space,” Green stated. “We’re racing to meet demand.”