Early Life and Career
Ben Lamm is a serial entrepreneur with a strong background in technology. Before founding Colossal Biosciences, he launched or co-founded several companies. One notable venture was Hypergiant, an AI-enabled decision-making software company that was acquired in 2023.
Rise to Success
Lamm's vision for Colossal Biosciences emerged from his interest in de-extinction and his collaboration with Harvard geneticist George Church. The company, launched in September 2021, has quickly become a leader in the field of genetic engineering and de-extinction. Lamm's leadership has been instrumental in securing significant funding and attracting a team of world-class scientists.
Key Business Strategies
Colossal's primary strategy involves using CRISPR technology to bring back extinct species like the woolly mammoth, Tasmanian tiger, and dodo bird. The company focuses on building advanced genomic sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, and reproductive technologies. A key part of their business model involves spawning new ventures from advancements in AI and genetics.
Philanthropy
In October 2024, Colossal announced the launch of the Colossal Foundation, a non-profit initiative that uses Colossal-developed science and technology methods for partner-led conservation efforts, including the Colossal Biovault, a biobanking initiative to collect tissue samples of endangered species.
