Biological Data, Biodiversity, and Innovation Cornerstones of San Diego Biotech Ecosystem
World-class biobanking programs and high-tech innovations are generating a wealth of biological data and driving scientific discovery in wildlife conservation.
26, June 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
San Diego, California – This week, the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology (NSCEB) visited San Diego and Escondido, California to explore a strong biotech ecosystem that is leveraging advanced technology from biobanking and genomic sequencing to artificial intelligence/machine learning (AI/ML) capabilities to advance wildlife health and conservation.
The week started with a visit to Element Bio, where they are developing advanced sequencing technologies, and ended with NSCEB meeting with leaders at the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Association to learn more about the conservation efforts underway throughout the Safari Park and the Beckman Center for Conservation, including the Frozen Zoo and the Conservation Technology Lab.
As artificial intelligence (AI) converges with biotechnology (AIxBio) to accelerate innovation, access to large quantities of high-quality biological data will become essential for research and discovery. In its April 2025 report, the NSCEB found that the United States has failed to amass a significant amount of AI-ready biological data and that China already treats biological data as geopolitically important. The United States must do the same if we want to continue to lead the world in biotechnology strength.
“The SDZWA and larger biotech ecosystem in San Diego provide a strong example of both the types of sequencing work recommended by the NSCEB to develop a data base of AI-ready biological data, and the types of advancements that are possible when those data combine with advanced technologies to produce real-world impact,” said NSCEB Executive Director Caitlin Frazer. “Expanding efforts like these and initiating additional programs around the country through efforts like the America’s Living Libraries Act would give researchers even more opportunities to learn from the biology of the world around us.”
“There is no substitute for nature, but reversing the accelerating loss of biodiversity requires bold, innovative action,” said Dr. Nadine Lamberski, Chief Conservation and Wildlife Health Officer, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance. “By banking biomaterials through a decentralized global biobanking network, we are creating unprecedented opportunities for genetic rescue and genomic research. When paired with advanced technology tailored for conservation, these data can deliver vital insights needed to protect wildlife and plant species around the world.”
“Element was grateful to participate in an open dialogue with the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology as the Commission works to prepare the United States for the bioindustrial revolution. We share the Commission’s commitment to bioliteracy, because an informed society drives demand for better science. As AI and genomics continue to converge, the companies that will thrive aren’t those generating the highest volume of data, but the ones generating the most meaningful data. That principle shapes how we build: doing more with less, rooted in the belief that this distinction will define who leads and who falls behind,” said Molly He, CEO and co-founder of Element Biosciences. “Maintaining American leadership in genomics and sequencing requires continued investment in the entrepreneurs and startups pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, and we’re encouraged to see a bipartisan commission taking a serious, hands-on approach to understanding the innovation happening at companies like ours.”
Participants throughout the week included:
- Element Biosciences
- Illumina
- Office of U.S. Representative Scott Peters
- Office of U.S. Senator Adam Schiff
- Office of U.S. Senator Alex Padilla
- San Diego State University
- San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
- Scripps Institute for Oceanography
Biotech Across America Roadshow: The Commission is hitting the road to highlight biotechnology across America, including the companies, academic institutions, workforce development programs, and policy initiatives that are driving the future for this rapidly growing industry. Commissioners will continue learning about the work being done across this vibrant ecosystem while engaging on the key findings and recommendations from the Commission’s recent report to Congress.
About NSCEB: The National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology is a time-limited, high-impact legislative branch advisory entity whose purpose is to advance and secure biotechnology, biomanufacturing, and associated technologies for U.S. national security and to prepare the United States for the bioindustrial revolution. The Commission published a comprehensive report in April 2025, including recommendations for action by Congress and the federal government. The bipartisan Commission is composed of Congressionally-appointed Commissioners with members from both the Senate and the House of Representatives as well as experts from industry, academia, and government. For more information about the Commission and to view the report, visit: biotech.senate.gov.
Contacts:
NSCEB: press@biotech.senate.gov
