Polaris Genomics
5 known investors
Polaris Genomics is a Veteran-owned biotech startup mapping molecular biomarkers to develop objective, biologically-based diagnostics and novel therapeutics for mental health and neuropsychiatric conditions such as PTSD. It combines genomics and AI to advance precision mental health care.
Founders & leadership
CC

Charles CathlinCo-founder & Chief Executive Officer
TC

Tshaka CunninghamCo-founder & Director of Research & Development
AN

Anne NaclerioChief Medical Officer
FM
Frank MastronuzziChief Financial Officer
Investors · 5
Maryland TEDCOUpper Marlboro · $500K – $1.5M
TEDCOColumbia
Wavemaker Three-Sixty HealthreportedLos Angeles · $500K – $2M
Also in the syndicate · 2
Viking GlobalWavemaker 360
Funding
SEC filings, press & company announcementsSource: company announcements and press reports — follow each round's link for the claim.
Competitors · 7
by search overlapGenomics Plc39 shared keywordsGenomics builds a genotype-phenotype database and genetic risk-prediction tools used to support pharmaceutical drug discovery and clinical trials, as well as population health management and clinical decision support for healthcare providers. It serves life sciences companies and healthcare systems through its Life Sciences and Health & Wellness divisions.
Helix31 shared keywordsHelix operates a precision health platform connecting patients, physicians, health systems, and life sciences organizations to genetic testing and genomic data. Its offerings include clinical genetic testing (Helix Diagnostics), population genomics (Helix Research Network), a clinico-genomic research database (GenoSphere), and cost-management tools for health plans.
NeoGenomics30 shared keywordsNeoGenomics provides oncology diagnostics and laboratory testing, offering over 500 tests across modalities including molecular testing, IHC, flow cytometry, FISH, next-generation sequencing, and comprehensive genomic profiling for solid tumors and hematologic cancers. It serves oncologists, patients, and biopharma partners in the US, supporting clinical care as well as drug development and clinical trials.
10x Genomics 1-color28 shared keywords10x Genomics offers single cell analysis technology, including its Flex assay and Flex Apex product, which use probe-based chemistry and plate-based multiplexing to profile fresh, frozen, and FFPE samples for researchers. The tools support applications in cancer, immunology, and neuroscience, enabling gene expression and multiomic profiling of cell surface protein, intracellular protein, and CRISPR guides.
Phase Genomics24 shared keywordsPhase Genomics develops long-range genome sequencing technology based on proximity ligation, along with computational tools, for scientists studying cancer, inherited diseases, microbiomes, and biodiversity. It serves academic and research institutions and biopharmaceutical firms across life sciences, medicine, and agriculture.
Labcorp22 shared keywordsLabcorp provides clinical laboratory testing, diagnostics, and lab data services for patients, healthcare providers, and biopharma companies, including genetic health panels, oncology testing, and self-ordered lab tests. It also offers AI-powered tools such as a results-explaining consumer app, a diagnostic assistant integrated into EHRs, and a laboratory data analytics platform to support drug development and clinical research.
IDbyDNA21 shared keywordsScalable, high throughput DNA sequencing platforms.
Companies competing with Polaris Genomics for the same Google search keywords, organic and paid, via search-intersection analysis.
Non-dilutive funding · 2 SBIR/STTR awards
Federal grants — no equity taken| Agency | Phase | Year | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. Air ForceAir Force | Phase II | 2023 | $1.2M |
| U.S. Air ForceAir Force | Phase I | 2022 | $49.8K |
Source: SBIR.gov award data (U.S. Small Business Administration). SBIR/STTR awards are competitive federal R&D grants and contracts — non-dilutive capital alongside any venture rounds above.
In the news
Frequently asked questions
- What does Polaris Genomics do?
- Polaris Genomics is a Veteran-owned biotech startup mapping molecular biomarkers to develop objective, biologically-based diagnostics and novel therapeutics for mental health and neuropsychiatric conditions such as PTSD. It combines genomics and AI to advance precision mental health care.
- Who founded Polaris Genomics?
- Polaris Genomics was founded by Charles Cathlin, Tshaka Cunningham.
- Who are Polaris Genomics's investors?
- Polaris Genomics's investors include Maryland TEDCO, TEDCO, Wavemaker Three-Sixty Health.


