Psomagen Joins Chan Zuckerberg Initiative for Billion Cells Project Using Ultima Genomics Technology

Psomagen Partners with Chan Zuckerberg Initiative for the Billion Cells Project

In a significant development for biomedical research, Psomagen Inc., a prominent multiomics service laboratory, has been selected as a key service provider for the ambitious Billion Cells Project spearheaded by the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative (CZI). This initiative is set to create an extensive dataset encompassing one billion individual cells, aimed at enhancing the understanding of cellular behavior and gene functionality through innovative AI models.

A Leap Towards Data-Driven Biology

Launched in May 2025, the Billion Cells Project seeks to amass a remarkable single-cell dataset that will serve as a cornerstone for advancing scientific research. According to Su Hong, CEO of Psomagen, this strategic collaboration marks a transformative milestone in biomedical exploration, ultimately guiding more precise drug development and identifying new therapeutic targets. Leveraging vast datasets, researchers aim to uncover novel strategies for restoring health to diseased cells. "We're excited to contribute to an initiative that intricately links the realms of biology and artificial intelligence, which aims at propelling advancements in human health," stated Hong.

Advanced Technology at Work

Psomagen plans to utilize the Ultima Genomics UG 100 high-throughput NGS sequencer, which it recently announced it would be implementing as an Ultima Certified Service Provider. This cutting-edge technology is designed to streamline and enhance the efficiency of single-cell sequencing processes, reducing operational costs by 25% for every million reads. The addition of the UG 100 to their workflows will bolster Psomagen’s capabilities at its Single Cell and Spatial Center of Excellence in Rockville, Maryland, thereby supporting various spatial biology methodologies, including those used in 10x Genomics technologies.

Supporting Unprecedented Research Capacities

Matt Kramer, Psomagen's Vice President of Marketing, Business Development, and Partnerships, expressed pride in being selected to realize a project of this magnitude, designed to benefit researchers across numerous disciplines. CZI’s dedication to health advancements aligns seamlessly with Psomagen's mission to provide multiomic data in the most efficient manner possible. Kramer highlighted, "The data generated from this collaboration will ultimately function as vital resources for the scientific community, ensuring broad access to groundbreaking insights on the genetic influences across various cell and tissue types."

Collaborative Efforts and Future Goals

The Billion Cells Project hinges on an extensive partnership network, comprising other technology leaders such as 10x Genomics and Scale Biosciences. Jonah Cool, Vice President of Scientific Strategy and Partnerships at CZI, emphasized that standardizing data processes is crucial for the project's success. He remarked, "The collaborative contributions from partners like Psomagen are key to scaling up single-cell sequencing, enabling the rapid and consistent generation of data that is critical to constructing robust AI-based models for predicting cellular behavior."

Conclusion: A Vision for Healthier Futures

As Psomagen embarks on this groundbreaking journey, the focus will remain on producing and delivering top-tier data to further the overarching goals of the Billion Cells Project. The initiative promises to bridge cutting-edge technology with essential scientific inquiries, potentially unlocking new methodologies for healthcare and medical advancements. As they work diligently towards this goal, Psomagen remains committed to its foundational principle of making sophisticated technology accessible and impactful in driving human health forward.

For more information about Psomagen’s contributions and programs, please visit their website at psomagen.com.

The Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, established in 2015, aims to address significant societal issues, including health and education advancements, building a future that enhances quality of life for everyone. To learn more, visit chanzuckerberg.com.