
Pumpkinseed enables life-speed reads of biological bits. We merge the power of silicon photonics and machine learning with state-of-the-art biochemistry for high-resolution protein sequencing. Genomics and transcriptomics have revolutionized how we diagnose and treat disease but it’s only part of the solution. Unraveling the proteome—and characterizing the breadth and dynamics of proteoforms—is critical to address many of the biggest challenges in personal, population, and ecosystem health. Rather than relying on sample amplification or fluorescent tags, we amplify light—and how light interacts in unique ways with each protein. Our method provides high resolution and quantitative insight into proteins, including their sequence, post-translational modifications, structure, and interactions. We strive to enable proactive solutions rather than reactive and crisis-based approaches, informing when to start treatment, which treatment is best, and how to design new therapies and vaccines. Solving the most challenging and impactful problems in medicine and sustainability will require a new lens into the inner working of cells. Come visit us to learn more, or get in contact with us about joining our team to build a better tomorrow with biology.

Pumpkinseed enables life-speed reads of biological bits. We merge the power of silicon photonics and machine learning with state-of-the-art biochemistry for high-resolution protein sequencing. Genomics and transcriptomics have revolutionized how we diagnose and treat disease but it’s only part of the solution. Unraveling the proteome—and characterizing the breadth and dynamics of proteoforms—is critical to address many of the biggest challenges in personal, population, and ecosystem health. Rather than relying on sample amplification or fluorescent tags, we amplify light—and how light interacts in unique ways with each protein. Our method provides high resolution and quantitative insight into proteins, including their sequence, post-translational modifications, structure, and interactions. We strive to enable proactive solutions rather than reactive and crisis-based approaches, informing when to start treatment, which treatment is best, and how to design new therapies and vaccines. Solving the most challenging and impactful problems in medicine and sustainability will require a new lens into the inner working of cells. Come visit us to learn more, or get in contact with us about joining our team to build a better tomorrow with biology.
Core offering: High-resolution, high-speed protein sequencing using silicon photonics + machine learning
Team size (reported): 11–50 employees (profiles report ~15)
Funding signal: Reported grant funding; BioTools Innovator named as lead for a grant
Headquarters: Palo Alto, California
Proteomics — high-throughput, high-resolution protein sequencing and characterization for diagnostics, therapeutics, and ecosystem health
Biotechnology / Life Sciences
Single disclosed grant-style funding event reported