Switch Bioworks, a biotechnology company focused on sustainable fertilizers, announced new senior leadership and a move to a new facility in California. The company has appointed Steve del Cardayre as Chief Technology Officer (CTO) and Brett Boghigian as Chief Business Officer (CBO). It also opened a new headquarters and R&D center in San Carlos, California.
Steve del Cardayre brings over 25 years of experience in microbial engineering and industrial biotech. His previous roles include co-founder and CTO of Zero Acre Farms, where he developed novel yeast-based oils. Del Cardayre has also held senior positions at Renewable Energy Group, Codexis, Maxygen, and LS9, pioneering microbial fuel and chemical production.
He stated, “Fertilizer supports global food security, and Switch is well-positioned to transform this industry with biotechnology. I’m excited to join this talented team and help scale these innovative solutions.”
Brett Boghigian joins as CBO, bringing nearly 20 years of leadership in agricultural and industrial biotech. He previously served as SVP at Mori and worked extensively with Flagship Pioneering. At Indigo Ag, he helped grow the company and launched over 20 microbial products used on millions of acres worldwide.
Boghigian said, “Our R&D team has built a strong foundation, and now we’re entering a new phase of customer-focused innovation. I look forward to expanding partnerships and working with growers to develop impactful products.”
Switch’s new headquarters in San Carlos triples its R&D space, including fermentation capacity, laboratories, plant grow rooms, and offices.
CEO Tim Schnabel explained, “This new facility is a launchpad for our mission to develop sustainable, affordable fertilizers to support global food production.”
With these leadership additions and new facilities, Switch Bioworks aims to accelerate its progress toward transforming agriculture sustainably.
