Ionica Sciences

Ionica Sciences is a biotechnology startup established in 2013 with a mission to apply spectroscopic approaches to detect biologically relevant targets, including pathogens, hormones, or other disease indicators. The company's first test, IonLyme™, specifically addresses Lyme disease, the fastest-growing vector-borne disease in the USA. The founders, with a combined 40 years of research experience, have expertise in chemistry, vibrational spectroscopy, molecular biology, and biotechnology. Their previous success in winning US federal Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) grants includes bringing in $30 million in funding from Phase I and Phase II programs. Ionica Sciences is currently focused on a DARPA funded development effort for the detection and quantitation of biologically relevant molecules at pg/ml levels, leveraging the company’s spectroscopic and biotechnological expertise. Additionally, the startup is collaborating with researchers in biological detection and spectroscopic methodologies at Cornell University and the City College of New York. The latest investment of $255.47K grant was received on 30 November 2020 from the National Science Foundation. Combining cutting-edge technology with extensive research experience, Ionica Sciences anticipates bringing an FDA-approved assay to market within 3-5 years, offering inexpensive assays for use in point-of-care settings without the need for lengthy preparation times or extensive instrumentation. This innovative approach and strategic collaborations position Ionica Sciences as a promising player in the biotechnology and healthcare industries.