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Modern Synthesis
A biomaterial innovation company
- 1-20 employees
- B2B
- Sustainability
- Manufacturing
- Fashion
- Design
- Environmental
- Biotechnology
- Clapham, London, UK
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Company mission
To provide truly sustainable + inspiring cellulose-based alternatives to reduce the industry's dependence on petrochemical-derived materials—without sacrificing its creativity.
Our take
The sustainability crisis in the fashion industry continues to grow, with research showing that most emissions are in fact produced in the materials phase. So there’s been a ramp-up of investment in next-gen materials - like Modern Synthesis’ microbial weaves.
Whilst still in the R&D small-batch stage, this material is highly innovative: it’s made from microbes that grow around a robotically laid-down weave to form a lightweight, plastic-like substance. This makes it a potentially game-changing replacement for petrochemical materials, some of the biggest polluters in the fashion industry.
Modern Synthesis is a modest outfit for now, but has been generating substantial buzz in the material sciences scene, and will be opening a pilot plant with the help of new funding. This growth will be critical, because Modern Synthesis’ material will need to work at scale if it is to see adoption by even boutique brands, let alone broader industry uptake.
For now, biomaterial startups like AirCarbon and Clarus are gaining faster momentum through partnerships with Nike and Ralph Lauren respectively; but there’s no shortage of market appetite for alternatives. If Modern Synthesis can refine its production line, and perhaps find a big-name partner, there’s a lot to play for.
Steph
Company Specialist at Welcome to the Jungle
Company values
- Growth
- Co-Culture
- By Design
Funding (last 2 of 3 rounds)
Sep 2022
$1m
EARLY VC
Jun 2022
$4.1m
SEED
Total funding: $5.5m
Leadership
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at Modern Synthesis
Sara Richardson (Chief of Staff)
- Innovation rarely happens in a vacuum. The greatest ideas stem from a variety of perspectives, and an environment that supports equal representation and opportunities for all
- We are committed to driving global change. We only have one planet we all call home, and we need to work together to protect it. We believe in collaboration and a culture of debate. Disagreements are a chance to refocus our direction. We call this co-culture
- We welcome people of all races, genders, religions, ages, backgrounds, and abilities to our workplace and are committed to ensuring all our employees are safe, heard, represented and provided with every opportunity to thrive
- Equally we will act with integrity, purpose and respect in everything we do. We too are human. We will likely make mistakes and need to continue evolving our approach to ED&I as the world around us changes
Articles
Endorsements
All
Opportunities to learn (2)
My opinions are valued (2)
Team energy (2)
Inspiring mission (2)
Meaningful work (1)
One of the great things about working at Modern Synthesis is that all the work is contributing to our mission for a sustainable material for the fashion industry. Whether in the labs, the engineering space or on the operations side of the business, we all understand how our work is contributing the success of the organisation.
People, HR, Recruitment
Meaningful work
Apr 2023
Not only do my team value my opinions, but when we come together as an organisation, everyone's voices are heard, from the CEO all the way to our technicians. The company is filled with intelligent, driven people who know the value of listening to their teammates.
People, HR, Recruitment
My opinions are valued
Apr 2023
The energy of the team at Modern Synthesis is fantastic! Everyone is incredibly welcoming when new hires join the team, and there is a wonderful social element to the team. Even when things are busy, the team keeps positive energy and drive.
People, HR, Recruitment
Team energy
Apr 2023
The team at Modern Synthesis is driven, hardworking and inspired. In the ever-growing and ever-changing world of sustainability, we are becoming key players. I love seeing our progress from quarter to quarter on the company dashboard.
Other Engineering
Inspiring mission
Feb 2023
Each week, my team at Modern Synthesis takes the time to highlight wins and explore lows in a positive manner. We talk about our upcoming projects and discuss our products together and everyone feels included.
Other Engineering
Team energy
Feb 2023
My work is recognized, and every day is a different day. As someone who doesn't enjoy spending too much time staring at screens, the diversity of my workday is something I truly value. Attendance at conferences and courses is highly encouraged.
Other Engineering
Opportunities to learn
Feb 2023
One of the things that attracted me most to working at Modern Synthesis was that the product can really change the textiles industry, which currently has such a negative impact on global climate change.
Operations & Strategy
Inspiring mission
Feb 2023
One of our values is growth, and you can only grow by learning from others! It's so important that we are all heard, and that everyone is able to contribute to the company's success with their own skills and opinions.
Operations & Strategy
My opinions are valued
Feb 2023
I knew when I joined that there was a lot I wanted to learn to become better at my role. There is so much knowledge within the team, but a really unique aspect of Modern Synthesis is our amazing network to help bring knowledge into the company. We're always looking for new ways to help our team learn and develop and the ownership we have of our own learning is hugely important too.
Operations & Strategy
Opportunities to learn
Feb 2023
