Pavle Jeremic, CEO of Aether, discusses their self-healing programmable materials for 3D printing, their approach to generating high-quality data through a hybrid robotic lab, and advancements in lithium technology. They explore material science, AI in drug design, and overcoming challenges in startup funding.
Aether uses artificial intelligence and protein-based nanomachines to create new materials and execute precise chemical reactions.
Aether is developing protein-based methods for extracting lithium to contribute to the accelerated electrification of the planet.
Deep dives
Ether's Journey to Becoming a Deep Tech Company
Ether was founded after years of research and development to turn technology into a marketable product. Their work revolves around engineering proteins found in nature to create new classes of protein-based nanomachines. Two successful applications are evident: metal extraction with high efficiency and low cost, and the creation of new materials. Their process involves using artificial intelligence and a robotic laboratory to design and test protein machines that can rearrange atoms. They also focus on the end-to-end process of turning ideas into full-fledged products.
The Limitations of Synthetic Chemistry in Manufacturing
Traditional synthetic chemistry methods used in manufacturing rely on increasing the probability that atoms will form bonds through brute force techniques like temperature and acidity changes. However, these processes are inefficient and time-consuming. Their approach at Ether involves using proteins as machines to mechanically force atoms to come together in specific ways, enabling precise control over chemical reactions. By engineering proteins to execute new functionalities, they can create novel chemical reactions that offer a range of possibilities for product development.
The Importance of Lithium in the Renewable Energy Transition
Lithium plays a crucial role in the transition to renewable energy due to its use in batteries for energy storage. The traditional methods of lithium extraction are environmentally unfriendly and limited in supply. Ether recognized that addressing the scarcity of battery-grade lithium domestically and reducing costs were essential to scale up electrification efforts. By developing new protein-based methods for extracting lithium, Ether aims to contribute to the accelerated electrification of the planet and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Challenges and Persistence in Building a Deep Tech Company
Building a deep tech company like Ether presents numerous challenges. The CEO highlights the importance of persistence and not giving up, even when faced with unexpected hurdles and difficulties. The process of raising significant funding, like their $49 million series A, requires determination and tenacity. While advice from others can be helpful, it is important to recognize that each entrepreneur's journey is unique. The CEO emphasizes the need for focus and staying true to the company's mission to achieve long-term success.
Join Pavle Jeremic, CEO of Aether, as he discusses their groundbreaking work in self-healing programmable materials for 3D printing, their unique approach to generating high-quality data through a hybrid robotic laboratory, and Aether's vision for the future of manufacturing and advancements in lithium technology. Explore the latest developments in material science and the potential impact on various industries.
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