Execute an integrated research program to develop a biomanufacturing platform for on-demand small-scale synthesis of biologics utilizing the modular automated cell-free resource operating system or…

The Defense Threat Reduction Agency awarded $500,000 to Massachusetts Institute of Technology on May 15, 2026, under the Scientific Research - Combating Weapons of Mass Destruction program (CFDA 12.351) to execute an integrated research program developing a biomanufacturing platform for on-demand small-scale synthesis of biologics. The platform, called the Modular Automated Cell-Free Resource Operating System (MACROS), is envisioned as a portable device utilizing shelf-stable disposable microfluidic cartridges containing lyophilized cell-free reactions and reagents to perform all biomanufacturing steps. Performance occurs in Cambridge, Massachusetts, with a period of performance ending May 14, 2031. This project grant supports fundamental and applied research advancing knowledge in sciences with high payoff potential to counter weapons of mass destruction threats, consistent with DTRA's mission to safeguard against chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and high-yield explosive threats.

Execute an integrated research program to develop a biomanufacturing platform for on-demand small-scale synthesis of biologics utilizing the modular automated cell-free resource operating system or macros. The macros platform is envisioned as a portable device that utilizes shelf-stable disposable microfluidic cartridges containing lyophilized cell-free reactions and reagents to perform all biomanufacturing steps.