About us
4 TOP-LEVEL SCIENTISTS
GO-GETTER STARTUP MENTALITY
DATA-BASED DECISION-MAKING
EPIGENETICS FOR PLANETARY HEALTH
Born out of the German Cancer Research Center, with a background in epigenetics for data-based decisions for health and animals, we now want to apply the power of epigenetics to the challenges of the 21st century.
We believe that the health of humans, animals, and our planet is inextricably linked and that epigenetics reveals this relationship.
Our mission:
We collect and provide epigenetic data for the livestock and food industries to make animal husbandry, breeding and production more transparent, efficient, and sustainable.
Our vision:
We envision a world where livestock systems can maximize both productivity and animal welfare.
Dr. Lisa Görs
Designated CEO
Dr. Lisa Görs is a molecular biologist who has studied and researched at some of the world’s top institutions, like Cambridge, Imperial College and Harvard Medical School.
She brings expertise from across many domains of biological research, covering everything from infectious disease to cultivated meat, and several years of experience in the life science startup ecosystem to her work.
Vision for EpiTrace
“I want to bring science out of the lab and make a real difference in how we use, interact with, and preserve our planet’s resources, including animals.”
Dr. Geetha Venkatesh
CSO
Dr. Geetha Venkatesh is a bioinformatician with a focus on extracting maximum value from complex epigenetic data. She is one of the core scientific minds behind the EpiTrace concept.
Through industrial collaborations and internships, as well as founding a company, she has gained valuable practical insights into industrial applications and commercial requirements.
Vision for EpiTrace
“Food is central to our daily well-being, and the experiences of animals become part of what we consume. I want to use epigenetics to make this visible and empower people to make informed choices.”
Dr. Sina Lyko-Tönges
Head of IP
Dr. Sina Lyko-Tönges is a biotechnologist and it was her PhD project that led to the EpiTrace concept. She has several years of experience in tech transfer, IP strategy, industry partnerships and the commercialization of research results. As a co-founder of Merall Bioproducts GmbH, she has first-hand experience with the strategic challenges and success factors of biotech spin-offs. Sina also brings deep domain expertise and a lifelong connection to the equine industry to the team.
Vision for EpiTrace
“Having grown up in a farming environment, I know the balance between using livestock animals for human benefit and yet feeling deeply connected to the needs of these animals. I want to use biotechnological innovations for the benefit of the agricultural community and their animals.”
Prof. Dr. Frank Lyko
Head of innovation
Prof. Dr. Frank Lyko is a molecular biologist and Head of the Department of Epigenetics at the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ). He is recognized as one of the world’s leading scientists in the field of animal epigenetics and has received numerous scientific awards for his pioneering work.
With extensive experience in research, fundraising, industrial collaborations and previous startup ventures, he provides the high-level scientific vision and strategic oversight for EpiTrace.
Vision for EpiTrace
“I feel that only when we have translated academic research into tangible benefits for society, we have completed the cycle of scientific innovation.”