Abstract:
Biofidus was founded with a clear scientific focus: to translate deep analytical expertise into meaningful insights for biologics development. What began as a small, highly specialized team working on advanced glycan and protein characterization has evolved into a trusted contract research organization supporting drug discovery and development across multiple stages and modalities.

This talk traces the journey of Biofidus from its early days as a niche analytics provider to its current role as an integrated CRO partner. We will highlight key milestones in the company’s growth, including the deliberate expansion from single analytics into complementary capabilities such as advanced LC–MS characterization, proteomics, host-cell protein analysis, antibody sequencing, comparability studies, and functional bioassays. Throughout this evolution, Biofidus has maintained a strong emphasis on scientific rigor, regulatory relevance, and close collaboration with its clients.

A pivotal moment in this journey was Biofidus’ acquisition by Midas Pharma, which marked the transition from an independent specialist to part of a global drug development platform. This step enabled Biofidus to scale its operations, broaden its technological portfolio, and embed its analytical expertise more deeply into end-to-end development programs—while preserving its scientific culture and hands-on problem-solving approach.

The presentation will conclude with an overview of Biofidus’ current capabilities and strategic positioning, illustrating how focused scientific expertise, when paired with entrepreneurial thinking and the right partnerships, can grow into a sustainable CRO model. By reflecting on lessons learned along the way, this talk aims to provide insight for scientists, founders, and decision-makers interested in building, scaling, or collaborating with specialized CROs in modern drug development.

Bio:
Benjamin Müller is CEO of Biofidus AG in Bielefeld (Germany), a specialized analytical service provider focusing on the functional and structural characterization of proteins and other complex biomolecules. He is a co-founder of the company and has been responsible for its strategic and operational development since 2015, including the expansion of advanced analytical platforms and the management of national and international client projects.

Prior to this, he worked at Protagen Protein Services GmbH, initially as an Application Specialist and subsequently as Team Leader for Protein Glycosylation Analysis. In this role, he established and led a working group specializing in glycan-related LC-MS analytics and intact mass analysis.

Benjamin Müller studied Molecular Biotechnology at Bielefeld University and obtained his PhD in the Cell Culture Technology group of Thomas Noll, with a focus on proteomics, mass spectrometry, and cell culture engineering.