Switch Bioworks Enhances Leadership and Moves to New Facility to Advance Sustainable Fertilizer Products

Switch Bioworks has expanded its leadership team with the addition of Steve del Cardayre as CTO and Brett Boghigian as CBO. The company has also moved into a new facility in San Carlos, California, tripling its R&D footprint. Del Cardayre brings 25 years of experience in microbial engineering and industrial biotechnology, while Boghigian has nearly 20 years of leadership in agricultural and industrial biotech. The new facility will support continued growth and innovation in the development of low-cost and sustainable fertilizers.

San Francisco, Aug. 7, 2025 — Switch Bioworks, a biotechnology company focused on developing low-cost and sustainable fertilizers, has announced significant milestones in its growth trajectory. The company has expanded its executive team with the addition of Steve del Cardayre as Chief Technology Officer (CTO) and Brett Boghigian as Chief Business Officer (CBO). Additionally, Switch Bioworks has moved into a new, state-of-the-art facility in San Carlos, California, tripling its research and development (R&D) footprint.

Steve del Cardayre, PhD, brings over 25 years of experience in microbial engineering and industrial biotechnology to his new role as CTO. He has held senior positions at various renowned organizations, including Renewable Energy Group, Codexis, Maxygen, and was a co-founder of LS9. Del Cardayre's expertise in building and commercializing product platforms in microbial engineering positions him to lead the technological advancements at Switch Bioworks.

Brett Boghigian, PhD, joins Switch Bioworks as CBO, bringing nearly 20 years of leadership in agricultural and industrial biotech, and venture-backed life sciences innovation. His extensive experience includes serving as SVP at Mori and holding leadership roles at Indigo Ag, where he played a pivotal role in growing the company and launching numerous microbial products. Boghian's strategic vision will be instrumental in expanding partnerships and driving product development.

The new facility in San Carlos, California, is a significant step for Switch Bioworks. The 100,000 square-foot space includes fermentation capacity, plant grow rooms, laboratory, and office space, providing a comprehensive environment for R&D. The expansion is expected to accelerate the development of next-generation fertilizers, contributing to the company's mission of improving food security and sustainability.

"Our R&D team's achievements have set a powerful foundation, and Switch is now entering a new chapter of customer-driven innovation," said Dr. Boghigian. "I'm eager to expand strategic partnerships across the value chain and work closely with growers to advance our product development."

The appointment of del Cardayre and Boghigian, along with the new facility, underscores Switch Bioworks' commitment to innovation and growth. The company's mission to reduce the cost of fertilizer while improving outcomes for farmers and the environment aligns with global sustainability goals. As the company continues to advance its technology, it is poised to make a significant impact on the agricultural industry.

References:
[1] https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/switch-bioworks-expands-leadership-team-and-moves-into-new-facility-to-accelerate-development-of-its-microbial-fertilizer-products-302524040.html