Multiply Labs raises $75M to optimize pharmaceutical manufacturing with robots

Multiply Labs, a startup specializing in automation equipment for pharmaceutical manufacturers, has recently secured $75 million in funding. The Series B round of financing was led by renowned medical researcher Patrick Soon-Shiong, and brought in over a dozen additional investors, including industry giants AstraZeneca and Teradyne.

The company's technology targets the repetitive and labor-intensive manufacturing processes in drug production, which typically require manual labor. Multiply Labs' invention, called robotics clusters, consist of specialized enclosures housing various pieces of manufacturing equipment, interconnected by robotic arms that transport materials between machines.

These systems are notably lighter than traditional warehouse automation, making them easier to replace in case of malfunctions. They also feature tactile sensors to monitor the pressure applied to vials, ensuring precise alignment with manufacturing needs. The robots can carry out tasks such as stirring vials and mixing contents within containers, all guided by an AI model trained from data provided by their clientele.

This means that drug manufacturers can switch to robotic workflows without needing new regulatory approval, as the process essentially remains unchanged. Currently, Multiply Labs is concentrating on automating the production of cell and gene therapies, personalized treatments that require patient-specific formulations. With the new investment, the company plans to broaden its support to other types of therapies and augment its manufacturing capacity.