San Francisco, a vibrant hub for innovation and research, boasts a dynamic biotech industry with cutting-edge technological advancements that collectively drive significant progress in medical science and patient care.
Background of San Francisco area for Biotech Companies
Often recognized as the birthplace of biotechnology, San Francisco's journey in this field commenced in 1976 with the establishment of Genentech by Robert Swanson and Dr. Herbert Boyer. Genentech has since evolved into one of the oldest and most dominant entities within the biotech industry. Its founding has catalyzed the establishment of numerous biotech and pharmaceutical companies in the region, fostering a collaborative environment. Currently, the biotech firms in San Francisco are interconnected, working collectively to address challenges in human health. This ecosystem includes service providers, specialized suppliers, and prominent institutions such as the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), and Stanford University. Together, they integrate life science research with industry practices, forming a robust network dedicated to information sharing and innovation. Through rigorous research and experimentation, these entities significantly contribute to the advancement of innovation-driven sectors. Moreover, the presence of 250 biotech companies and 12 million square feet of dedicated biotech space forms the foundation of South San Francisco’s economy. This region is strategically positioned to support life sciences innovation, offering numerous advantages to its residents, including proximity to leading research institutions, a highly skilled workforce, and established networks of investors. Moreover, the quality of life in South San Francisco is notably high, as the city boasts modern amenities that enhance the living experience. Residents enjoy comfortable living in well-appointed residential areas while benefiting from employment opportunities in more than 2,800 firms, including industry leaders such as Genentech, Merck, Pfizer, Astellas, and Verily. This diverse range of biotech companies in the San Francisco area fosters an exceptional environment for hardware and software engineering. This culture of innovation has spurred the development of software as a medical device (SaMD), machine learning, and artificial intelligence applications in healthcare, with notable contributions from companies such as Medical AI, Inc., Doximity, and Tempus AI. Additionally, the proximity to Silicon Valley has been instrumental in cultivating an entrepreneurial spirit and driving technological advancements. As a result, many of the leading biotech firms are headquartered in San Francisco, leveraging the abundant tech resources available in the region.
Major updates in the field of Biotech in 2024
In 2024, the biotech field has witnessed significant advancements, particularly in the San Francisco Bay Area. Innovations such as improved CRISPR techniques for gene editing, personalized medicine driven by artificial intelligence and DNA sequencing, and the development of bi-specific antibodies for complex diseases are shaping the landscape. AI is enhancing drug discovery and clinical trial processes, while advanced biosensors are facilitating real-time health monitoring. The Bay Area remains a premier hub for biotech startups, bolstered by a legacy of early tech successes that have created a thriving environment rich in talent. In fact, 27% of all life sciences employment in the U.S. is concentrated in this region, with leading companies like Merck, Gilead, AbbVie, Genentech, and Amgen establishing strong presences. Anticipating the rapid growth of its biotech cluster, South San Francisco has invested over $300 million in infrastructure improvements, including upgrades to street systems, water quality, and sewer delivery. Construction has progressed steadily through and beyond 2020, with the City anticipating that the square footage dedicated to the life sciences industry will double between 2019 and 2035. For biotech startups, South San Francisco offers a strategic advantage, located less than 10 minutes from San Francisco International Airport (SFO), 15 miles from downtown San Francisco, and just half an hour from Stanford University in Silicon Valley. The City, along with four Real Estate Investment Trust companies, has invested millions to foster a conducive environment for growth. This is exemplified by the ongoing development of 3.5 million square feet of biotech space, highlighting the region's commitment to enhancing its capacity for innovation and research in the life sciences sector. Current construction projects are reshaping the biotech industry landscape in the San Francisco Bay Area and across California. Additionally, local companies collaborate closely with universities to sustain and cultivate a skilled workforce, further solidifying the Bay Area's reputation as a vital center for biotechnology innovation.
This prompts an important question: what are the key drivers of success in this dynamic industry? As competition intensifies and complexities increase, the need to identify the factors that differentiate successful companies from their counterparts becomes increasingly critical. Consequently, there is a significant demand within the biotechnology sector to clearly define the success factors that dictate what makes a company thrive.
Criterions considered when ranking the biotech companies
The key elements identified by biotechnology companies are organized into five categories: Knowledge Assets, Use of Resources, External Environment, Funding, and Recruitment.
Knowledge Assets encompass intellectual property and both internal and external company databases.
Use of Resources pertains to internal research and development initiatives and the expansion into foreign markets.
External Environment includes factors such as government support, industry clusters, and networking resources.
Many studies focus on strategies to secure funding for the substantial research and development (R&D) costs in the biotechnology industry, highlighting funding as a crucial factor for success.
Recruitment addresses human resource challenges within the country, including the scarcity of qualified candidates and the competition for available talent.
As San Francisco has established itself as a global powerhouse in biotechnology, the top twenty companies operating within this vibrant ecosystem are listed below.
Top 20 Biotech Companies in San Francisco in 2024
1. Genentech
Website: www.gene.com.
Company size: 14,000-19,000 employees
Focused area: Oncology, Immunology, Ophthalmology and Metabolism
Description: Genentech is recognized as the world's first biotechnology company, playing a vital role in establishing recombinant DNA technology for commercial applications. In March 2009, Genentech became a member of the Roche Group, leading to the integration of their pharmaceutical operations in the U.S. This collaboration positioned Genentech’s South San Francisco headquarters as the central hub for Roche’s pharmaceutical operations in the country. The company is dedicated to advancing a diverse range of therapeutic areas, including oncology, immunology, neuroscience, metabolism, infectious diseases, and ophthalmology. Genentech's clinical pipeline currently comprises over 60 investigational molecules across these therapeutic areas. Through its extensive research and development efforts, Genentech continues to make significant contributions to patient care and medical innovation.
2. Amgen
Website: www.amgen.com
Company size: 26,000 employees
Focused area: Oncology, Nephrology and Inflammatory disease
Description: Founded in 1980, Amgen has made significant investments in research and development, resulting in a robust pipeline that enhances its existing portfolio of medicines. Amgen is headquartered in Thousand Oaks, California; however, it has significant operations in the San Francisco Bay Area. The company focuses on treating a range of serious conditions, including cancer, heart disease, osteoporosis, inflammatory diseases, and rare diseases, underscoring its commitment to addressing critical healthcare needs through innovative therapeutics.
3. Calico Life Sciences
Website: www.calicolabs.com
Company size: Approximately 367 employees
Focused area: Aging
Description: Founded in 2013, Calico Life Sciences is focused on developing solutions to promote longer and healthier lives. Utilizing academic research and cutting-edge medical technology, the company addresses key biological questions about aging and seeks to create interventions that enhance longevity. Calico's innovative approach has led to a portfolio of over 20 early- and late-stage preclinical compounds targeting cancer, neurological diseases, and tissue homeostasis and repair, positioning the company at the forefront of age-related health research.
4. GRAIL
Website: www.grail.com.
Company size: Approximately 1500 employees
Focused area: Early Cancer Detection
Description: Founded in 2016, GRAIL is committed to improving cancer mortality rates through early detection. The South San Francisco biotechnology company has developed Galleri, an innovative blood test that can identify multiple cancer types at their earliest stages from a single draw. By analyzing fragments of tumor DNA in the bloodstream, Galleri can pinpoint the cancer's original organ location. This advanced test is available in the U.S. by prescription for individuals at elevated risk for cancer, marking a significant step forward in cancer care.
5. Sutro Biopharma
Website: www.sutrobio.com.
Company size: 150-200 employees
Focused area: Clinical-Stage Drug Discovery
Description: Founded in 2003, Sutro Biopharma is dedicated to transforming cancer care by developing innovative medicines for unmet medical needs. Utilizing its proprietary cell-free protein synthesis platform, XpressCF, and site-specific conjugation platform, Xpress CF+, the company has advanced antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), bispecific antibodies, and immuno-oncology therapies. Sutro's platforms have led to the discovery of STRO-001 and STRO-002, its first two internally developed ADCs. STRO-001 targets CD74 and is in clinical studies for B-cell malignancies, while STRO-002 targets folate receptor alpha and is being evaluated for ovarian and endometrial cancers.
6. 3T Biosciences
Website: www.3tbiosciences.com/
Company size: 11-50 employees
Focused area: Immunotherapy
Description: Founded in 2017, 3T Biosciences has pioneered a groundbreaking technology called 3T-TRACE. This advanced platform integrates high-diversity target libraries with active machine learning algorithms to identify novel targets and T cell receptors (TCRs). Its expansive coverage and scalability make it applicable across various tumor types. Beyond oncology, 3T Biosciences is exploring opportunities across multiple therapeutic areas, including autoimmune diseases.
7. Zymergen
Website: www.zymergen.com
Company size: 130 employees
Focused area: Synthetic Biology
Description: Founded in 2013 and headquartered in the San Francisco Bay Area, Zymergen harnesses the power of automation, machine learning, and genomics to expedite scientific progress. By seamlessly integrating these technologies, the company aims to enhance research and development efficiency, driving innovation in various fields.
8. Denali Therapeutics
Website: www.denalitherapeutics.com
Company size: 364 employees
Focused area: Neurodegenerative and Lysosomal storage disease
Description: Founded in 2013, Denali Therapeutics has developed a portfolio of product candidates designed to cross the blood-brain barrier for neurodegenerative and lysosomal storage diseases. Utilizing a proprietary technology platform, the company employs various transport mechanisms—including enzyme, antibody, protein, and oligonucleotide transport vehicles. Denali’s pipeline targets critical conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, lysosomal storage disorders, neurodegeneration, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, positioning the company as a leader in innovative neurological therapies.
9. Allogene Therapeutics
Website: www.allogene.com.
Company size: 201-500 employees
Focused area: Cancer and Autoimmune conditions
Description: Founded in 2018, Allogene Therapeutics is committed to developing innovative cancer therapies. The company employs a multidisciplinary team with expertise in biology, cell therapy, and oncology, focusing on AlloCAR T products for various cancers and autoimmune conditions. Its pipeline includes investigational therapies targeting blood cancers and solid tumors, such as ALLO-501 and ALLO-316, highlighting its dedication to advancing therapeutic solutions.
10. Akero Therapeutics
Website: www.akerotherapeutics.com.
Company size: 56 employees
Focused area: Metabolic Diseases
Description: Founded in 2017, Akero Therapeutics is committed to developing innovative treatments for serious metabolic diseases. Its lead candidate, efruxifermin (EFX), is in Phase 3 clinical trials and is designed to reduce cellular stress while regulating lipid, carbohydrate, and protein metabolism. EFX specifically targets patients with biopsy-confirmed metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), aiming to enhance clinical outcomes and overall health.
11. Cortexyme
Website: www.cortexyme.com.
Company size: 1-50 employees
Focused area: Degenerative Diseases
Description: Founded in 2012, Cortexyme specializes in developing gene therapies for degenerative diseases, focusing on conditions like Alzheimer’s disease. The company emphasizes innovation and supports a collaborative, inclusive work environment, offering employees opportunities for advancement and professional development.
12. Audentes Therapeutics
Website: www.audentestx.com.
Company size: 396 employees
Focused area: Gene Therapy
Description: Founded in 2012, Audentes Therapeutics specializes in biochemistry, immunology, microbiology, and molecular biology to develop gene replacement therapies and RNA vectors for genetic conditions. With multiple locations nationwide, the company offers diverse career opportunities, providing employees with continuing education support, medical coverage, retirement plans, and wellness incentives.
13. Gritstone Oncology
Website: www.gritstoneoncology.com.
Company size: 51-200 employees
Focused area: Cancer
Description: Founded in 2015, Gritstone Oncology focuses on innovating cancer and immunotherapy products. Utilizing advanced biological and technical applications, the company develops effective gene therapies for various cancer types. Gritstone's diverse team includes scientific researchers, clinical technologists, and business managers, promoting an interdisciplinary approach to cancer treatment.
14. Global Blood Therapeutics
Website: www.globalbloodtherapeutics.com
Company size: 351 employees
Focused area: Sickle Cell Disease
Description: Founded in 2011, Global Blood Therapeutics is dedicated to developing innovative medicines for blood-based conditions, including sickle cell disease. The company fosters a supportive work environment, offering employees a range of benefits such as stock compensation, retirement planning, medical coverage, paid time off, and wellness incentives.
15. Ultragenyx Pharmaceuticals
Website: www.ultragenyx.com
Company size: 1,001-5,000 employees
Focused area: Rare Genetic Disorder
Description: Founded in 2010, Ultragenyx Pharmaceuticals is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative treatments for rare genetic disorders. Committed to advancing biotechnological methods, the company addresses both rare and ultra-rare diseases.
16. FibroGen
Website: www.fibrogen.com
Company size: 201-500 employees
Focused area: Anemia and Cancer
Description: Founded in 1995, FibroGen has expanded its presence nationally and internationally, focusing on the research and development of new medicines and therapies for chronic conditions and life-threatening diseases, including anemia and cancer. As the company continues to grow, it provides a variety of career opportunities for professionals in science, medicine, pharmaceutical research, and business management, fostering an environment of innovation and collaboration.
17. IDEAYA Biosciences
Website: www.ideayabio.com
Company size: 50-100 employees
Focused area: Precision Medicine
Description: Founded in 2014, Ideaya Biosciences specializes in precision medicine aimed at cancer treatment, with a particular focus on genomic and epigenomic alterations. The company is dedicated to developing innovative therapeutics that address significant unmet medical needs in oncology, striving to enhance patient outcomes through targeted interventions.
18. Verily Life Sciences
Website: www.verily.com.
Company size: Approximately 1900 employees
Focused area: Health Technology
Description: Founded in 2015, Verily Life Sciences is distinguished by its innovative approach to health and data science, effectively integrating advanced analytics and machine learning with biomedical research. The company is dedicated to developing solutions that tackle complex health challenges, including chronic diseases and preventive care, thereby advancing the field of precision health and enhancing healthcare outcomes.
19. Twist Bioscience
Website: www.twistbioscience.com.
Company size: Approximately 500-1000 employees
Focused area: Synthetic DNA Production
Description: Founded in 2013, Twist Bioscience specializes in high-throughput synthesis of DNA. The company provides custom DNA sequences and supports industries ranging from pharmaceuticals to agriculture. With a focus on enabling innovation in synthetic biology and precision medicine, Twist's technology underpins advances in diagnostics, therapeutics, and industrial biotechnology.
20. Exelixis
Website: www.exelixis.com.
Company size: 1400 employees
Focused area: Cancer Treatment
Description: Founded in 2018, Exelixis is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing cancer therapeutics. Its key products include Cabometyx (cabozantinib) for advanced renal cell carcinoma, Cometriq (cabozantinib) for metastatic medullary thyroid carcinoma, Cotellic (cobimetinib) for BRAF mutation-positive advanced melanoma, and Minnebro (esaxerenone) for hypertension in Japan. Through its innovative research, Exelixis aims to address critical medical needs in oncology.
Conclusion:
If you are seeking a career in science, technology, or research, San Francisco offers a wealth of opportunities within its thriving biotechnology sector. From positions in scientific research and clinical analysis to roles in business management and software development, the region provides a diverse array of employment options. San Francisco's unique blend of educational institutions, access to capital, collaborative ecosystem, and diverse industries has positioned it as a model for tech hubs worldwide. While hiring has slowed across the industry in 2024 due to economic challenges impacting funding, Biotech Bay continues to be a strong center for life sciences careers. Check out how Genemod is accelerating these companies' research through innovative LIMS solutions, driving productivity and enhancing data management across the biotech ecosystem.
REFERENCES:
1. 6 of the top biotech companies in South San Francisco (labiotech.eu)
2. San Francisco's Biotech Boom: The City’s History in Health Innovation - Immerse Education
3. Top Biotech Startups in the San Francisco Bay Area, According to VCs - Business Insider
4. Top Biotech Cities in 2024: Thriving Hubs of Innovation (excedr.com)
