YEAR IN REVIEW: 2024-2025
Over the past two years Open Fung has built real momentum. Here are a few things we're proud of - accomplishments that only happened because of the generous, curious, committed people around us.
Science
- Built a repeatable R&D screening pipeline and identified top-performing fungal species for biomaterials.
- Generated full-genome sequence, growth/mating protocols, and early bioinformatics tools for wood-decay fungi.
- Launched the development of an ethical, data-informed strain-collection framework aligned with Indigenous local-context standards.
- Established a lab at Focus Scientific/Port Labs in Oakland, giving us more space for research, experimentation and scientific advancement.
Network
- Completed our two-year appointment as Stanford Visiting Scholars in the Bioengineering Department as a part of Drew Endy’s Lab.
- Mentored Stanford bioengineering students and design students at the Claremont Colleges.
- Published open-access mycology resource guides now used widely in university-level teaching and across communities.
Art
- Launched our Artist-in-Research (AIR) program and welcomed Laura Splan, who works as the intersections of science, technology and culture, as our inaugural Artist in Research resident
- Led hands-on biomaterials workshops in Los Angeles and Oakland with 40 diverse participants exploring water-based applications.
- Activated broader communities through accessible education, public programming, and cross-disciplinary dialogue.
Structure
- We officially became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in 2024, a milestone that anchors our mission and opens up new possibilities for support and collaboration.
- We established our inaugural Board of Directors including Phil Ross, Dr. N. Louise Glass, Bruce Marks and Rosten Woo. Their care, experience, and belief in this work continue to guide us.
- We welcomed the first three Advisors on to our newly formed Advisory Council - Jacob Golan J.D., Ph.D., Ann Hatch and Dr. Vera Meyer.
These accomplishments reflect the trust people have placed in Open Fung, and the future we’re building.
Thank you for being part of this beginning. We're grateful for everyone who is helping us to forge a path towards a regenerative world.
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