Breaking Biofilms: The Clarametyx Biosciences Journey
Some founders chase markets. Dr. Steven Goodman chased a question: Why are bacterial infections so hard to treat?
The answer—biofilms, the protective shields bacteria build against antibiotics,—led to Clarametyx Biosciences, a clinical-stage biotech company with a powerful focus: break the biofilm matrix, expose bacteria, and outsmart resistance. This mission has carried the company from lab bench to Series A and into clinical trials with FDA Fast Track Designation.
The spark came from frustration in the clinic. With antibiotic resistance rising, the timing was right. The science was bold. Could it scale into a business?
“Patients were failing antibiotics again and again. If we could take down the biofilm barrier, the body and existing drugs could do their job.”
Funding the Leap
Keeping Clarametyx alive required creative financing: grants, local funds, even building their own humanized antibodies when no one else would. Stability came in stages, always with trade-offs. Impact was always the motivator.
“You’re constantly leveraging until you reach daylight. Our value was always measured in lives improved.”
Lessons Learned
Early on, most funders weren’t convinced. Then one small yes—a vial of antibody from a skeptical partner—unlocked validation. Lab data followed, advocacy groups took notice, and traction began. Dr. Goodman became a translator: scientist in the lab, strategist with middle management, seller with business development.
“You need the right data, the right timing, and the right story.” “If you use the wrong language, you’ll hear crickets.”
A pivotal moment: a late-night cystic fibrosis poster session that felt like a “dead slot,” but drew a crowd—and, days later, a $5M commitment from the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.
“That validation reinforced our vision. The business must work, but real success means changing lives.”
Advice for Founders – Build bridges.
“Something I have learned in science and in business—if you walk in saying you have all the answers, you’ll burn trust. Every breakthrough came from collaboration, not isolation.”
This blog is a preview of the full conversation with Dr. Steven Goodman. Watch the video here for the unfiltered journey—from academic detours to funding scrambles to the Clarametyx.
