LS9

LS9 was a pioneer in synthetic biology that developed a proprietary platform to produce renewable fuels and chemicals through microbial fermentation. The company utilized genetically engineered microorganisms, specifically E. coli, to convert plant-based sugars into drop-in hydrocarbons, fatty alcohols, and esters in a single-step process. This technology was designed to create sustainable, cost-competitive alternatives to petroleum-derived products like diesel and surfactants used in personal care. Founded by leading scientists from Harvard, MIT, and UC Berkeley, the company was a prominent player in the first wave of industrial biotechnology startups. LS9 was acquired by Renewable Energy Group in 2014, and its technology was later integrated into Chevron's portfolio following Chevron's acquisition of REG in 2022.