Key Takeaways:
- Switch Bioworks appoints Steve del Cardayre as Chief Technology Officer and Brett Boghigian as Chief Business Officer
- Both executives bring decades of experience in microbial engineering, agricultural biotech, and commercialization
- Company relocates to a new, larger facility in San Carlos, California, tripling its R&D space
- The new headquarters includes fermentation labs, grow rooms, and office space to support growth
- Leadership additions mark a shift toward field-ready, customer-focused fertilizer development
Switch Bioworks Adds Seasoned Biotech Leaders to Drive Next Growth Phase
Switch Bioworks’ New CTO and CBO Bring Extensive Experience in Scaling Biotech Platforms
Switch Bioworks, a biotechnology company developing sustainable and affordable fertilizer solutions, announced the appointment of two senior executives as it enters a new phase of expansion.
Steve del Cardayre, PhD, joins as Chief Technology Officer, bringing over 25 years of experience in microbial engineering and industrial biotech. Previously CTO and Co-founder of Zero Acre Farms, del Cardayre has also held leadership roles at Renewable Energy Group, Codexis, Maxygen, and LS9.
“Fertilizer is the bedrock of crop production,” del Cardayre said. “Switch is uniquely positioned to transform this industry with biotechnology—helping farmers earn more, feed more people, and care for their land and the planet.”
Brett Boghigian, PhD, has been named Chief Business Officer. With a background spanning nearly two decades in agricultural and industrial biotech, he most recently served as SVP at Mori and spent over a decade in the Flagship Pioneering ecosystem. At Indigo Ag, he was instrumental in launching over 20 microbial products used on millions of acres worldwide.
“Our R&D team’s achievements have set a powerful foundation,” said Boghigian. “I’m eager to expand strategic partnerships and work closely with growers to advance our product development.”
Switch Bioworks’ New San Carlos Headquarters to Support Scaling and Field Deployment
Facility Designed to Integrate R&D, Pilot Production, and Collaboration
To support its expanding operations, Switch Bioworks has moved into a new dedicated headquarters in San Carlos, California, tripling its research and development footprint. The facility includes fermentation capacity, plant grow rooms, labs, and office space under one roof.
“This isn’t just more space—it’s a launchpad for our mission-driven team, platform, and products,” said Tim Schnabel, founder and CEO. “With Steve and Brett on board, we have the leadership, experience, and spirit to accelerate the development of next-generation fertilizers that society depends on to grow enough food, sustainably and affordably.”
The company continues to focus on developing biotechnology-based fertilizers that can reduce reliance on synthetic chemicals and improve soil health, with the aim of delivering solutions that benefit both growers and the environment.
Switch Bioworks’ latest developments signal a shift toward customer-focused product delivery and broader industry engagement as it moves from lab-based innovation toward scalable agricultural solutions
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