In the rapidly evolving Agri-tech landscape, FA Bio is integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to accelerate microbial discovery, making our approach more efficient and data-driven.
We restore soil health through fungi, collecting large, unique datasets across our pipeline. By applying AI and ML, we refine microbial candidate selection, expedite discovery and speed up product development – strengthening our competitive position.
Building a Strong Foundation
A successful execution of AI-driven strategy begins with high-quality data. To ensure optimal performance when leveraging AI and ML, we have been focused on refining FA Bio’s data systems and structures. FA Bio uses Benchling, an advanced Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS), to ensure our data is consistent, reliable and well-structured. By leveraging Benchling, we can manage large datasets efficiently, ensuring data integrity while building a solid framework for future AI advancements.
A key milestone in ensuring the effective use of our data was the appointment of Marina Vayzert, a Data Technician and our first official employee dedicated to data management and infrastructure. Marina has been instrumental in evaluating and improving our data management practices, cleansing and standardising data to create high quality datasets, the essential foundation for training accurate and reliable AI models.
AI and ML in Action
We are applying AI and ML across our Microbial Discovery Platform to automate decision-making and enhance predictive capabilities. Here, some of our senior leadership team share how we are leveraging this technology.
Head of Research, Andrea González González – “We use clustering algorithms to analyse genomic and agronomic data from our microbial strains. By integrating phylogenetic analysis with machine learning we can predict which fungal isolates have biostimulant and biocontrol potential. This allows us to make data-driven selections of promising microbial candidates before extensive laboratory testing, improving efficiency and reducing costs.”
Head of Operations, Leigh Credland – “One of earliest ideas for implementing AI and ML was the use of image recognition technology. We collect large quantities of images at various stages of our pipeline and quickly realised there is significant potential contained within them. Our first ML project focussed on unlocking this potential, allowing us to process more samples with greater accuracy in significantly less time. It’s a really exciting development for the business.”
Head of Scientific Operations, Natalia Franco Taketani – “Our fermentation team are using AI to centralise and analyse data, creating predictive models that help us scale up our production with minimal risk. By standardising our screening pipeline, we generate consistent data across different strains and fermentation conditions. AI-driven analysis then helps us select the best strains and optimise fermentation processes, reducing time and resource investment in candidates with lower chances of becoming a viable product.”
Future Growth and Innovation
FA Bio is continuously expanding its AI capabilities. With NVIDIA credits supporting our ML initiatives, we are strengthening our ability to extract deeper insights from our data. To accelerate this progress, we are working closely with experts in the field, ensuring our internal capabilities continue to grow and support our ambitious plans. By integrating AI and ML across our operations, we are making microbial discovery faster, smarter and more scalable, positioning FA Bio as a pioneer in the discovery of solutions for regenerative agriculture.
