About Us
Novel Biotherapeutics To Modulate The Human Microbiome
Our Story
Ostia Sciences is a premier microbiome solutions company that specializes in discovering novel bacterial metabolites with antibacterial, antibiofilm, and immunomodulation activities. Our goal is to isolate beneficial microbes from the human oral microbiome, human breast milk, and fermented food, which are known to be rich sources of ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptides (RiPPs) and natural products with a range of biological activities.
There are more microbe cells than human cells in the human body. It is estimated that the human body is made up of approximately 30 trillion human cells, while the number of microbe cells is estimated to be around 100 trillion.
OUR PARTNERS:
A Collection of Prior Achievements
The team’s exceptional track record includes delivering groundbreaking scientific studies, successfully bringing drugs to market, and driving advancements in the scientific community.
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PEER REVIEWED PUBLICATIONS
From Discovery to GMP Manufacturing
Pipeline built on patented antimicrobial innovation and clinical validation From discovery to GMP manufacturing, we’re translating SALI-10’s bioactive potential into real-world health solutions for dentistry, oncology, and respiratory defense
Our Team
Dr. Barbour is an entrepreneur and molecular microbiologist building biotechnology companies around natural products and next-generation biotherapeutics. He co-discovered Salivaricin-10 and founded Ostia Sciences to translate precision microbiome science into clinically validated products. He has led the company’s IP strategy, building a defensible portfolio spanning platform patents, formulation know-how, and brand assets, while driving partnerships, manufacturing readiness, and fundraising to increase enterprise value.
Dr. Michael Glogauer is an internationally recognized dental clinician scientist and leader in oral immunity, oral disease, and the links between oral and systemic health. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery, PhD, and Diploma in Periodontology at the University of Toronto and completed a postdoctoral fellowship at Harvard Medical School.
Dr. Glogauer is a Professor at the University of Toronto’s Faculty of Dentistry and serves as Head of Dentistry at University Health Network and Chief of Dental Oncology at the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre. His research has shaped the understanding of innate immunity in oral health and disease, with over 220 peer reviewed publications, multiple patents, and sustained funding from MRC and CIHR.
A Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences, Dr. Glogauer is a co-founder of Ostia Sciences, where he helps translate discoveries in oral immunology and microbiome science into clinically meaningful therapeutics.
Ruthie Glogauer brings a background in psychology alongside experience in market research, financial management, and organizational strategy. She is currently pursuing an MBA, strengthening her expertise in business operations and strategic decision making within a science driven startup environment.
At Ostia Sciences, Ruthie supports the operational side of the business by managing documentation and implementing efficient internal workflows. Her work helps ensure organizational clarity and operational continuity.
Julia Bianchi
BSc
Administrative and Research Coordinator
Read moreJulia Bianchi is an Administrative and Research Coordinator with a background in human biology and cell and molecular biology. She holds a Bachelor of Science and brings both scientific training and hands on healthcare experience to the Ostia Sciences team.
At Ostia Sciences, Julia supports research studies and helps coordinate clinical trials, managing project logistics, patient coordination, and cross team communication. Her work ensures smooth execution of microbiome focused research initiatives as the company advances translational therapeutics.
Mitchell Callaghan is a bioinformatician with training in biotechnology, molecular genomics, and microbiology. He completed his undergraduate studies at Conestoga College and earned a Graduate Certificate in Clinical Bioinformatics from Humber College. Mitchell brings a unique interdisciplinary perspective shaped by years of teaching biology, chemistry, and mathematics at the secondary and post secondary levels.
At Ostia Sciences, Mitchell applies computational and metagenomic analyses to support the identification and characterization of lantibiotic producing bacterial strains. His work includes taxonomic profiling, biosynthetic gene cluster analysis, and data visualization, contributing to microbiome driven discovery and translational research.
Cara Marks is a microbiome researcher with a background in biomedical sciences and antimicrobial peptide research. She earned her Honours Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences from the University of Guelph and completed a Master’s degree focused on characterizing antimicrobial peptides within the breast milk microbiome.
In addition to her scientific training, Cara brings experience in digital marketing and science communication, helping translate complex microbiome research into clear, engaging content. In recognition of her research contributions, she was awarded the CIHR Canadian Graduate Scholarship Master’s in 2023.
Kelly Choi
BSc.
Research Associate
Read moreKelly Choi is a research associate with a background in biology and laboratory research. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Toronto and contributes to Ostia Sciences through hands on experimental work and laboratory operations.
At Ostia, Kelly supports peptide production and purification, evaluates antimicrobial activity, and assists with bacterial culture preparation and data collection. She also performs microscopy and cell culture work while helping maintain a safe and well organized laboratory environment. Alongside her research role, Kelly is pursuing a career in nursing, reflecting her commitment to patient centered care and translational science.
Erin Rudolph is a microbiology researcher with a strong foundation in biochemistry, immunology, and translational science. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and a Master of Science in Microbiology and Immunology from the University of Guelph.
Erin has been recognized for excellence in scientific communication and research, earning first place in the 3MT Biological Science Competition and the Infection and Immunity Research Forum Oral Presentation Competition, as well as top recognition in Pathogens and Immunity at CSI 2025. Her experience includes murine methods training at Johns Hopkins and collaboration with clinical microbiologists and basic scientists to support interdisciplinary research. At Ostia Sciences, Erin brings a rigorous, thoughtful approach to problem solving and translational microbiome research.
Hyijoo Kang
Research Assistant
Read moreHyijoo Kang is a Research Assistant with a background in biological sciences. She recently completed her Honours Bachelor of Science at the University of Toronto and brings a thoughtful, curious approach to scientific research.
At Ostia Sciences, Hyijoo supports microbiome focused research initiatives and is motivated by science that translates into real world impact. She is passionate about contributing to innovative, evidence driven solutions that advance microbiome based therapeutics.
Yehoshua Bendayan
Research Assistant
Read moreYehoshua Bendayan is a microbiology researcher with training in human biology and microbial research. He earned an Honours Bachelor of Science in Human Biology and a Master of Science in Microbiology Research from the University of Toronto.
At Ostia Sciences, Yehoshua supports research and development initiatives focused on microbiome-based therapeutics. His work contributes to evidence driven discovery and the advancement of translational research within a fast-paced biotechnology environment.
Advisory Board
Dr. Barbour is an entrepreneur and molecular microbiologist building biotechnology companies around natural products and next-generation biotherapeutics. He co-discovered Salivaricin-10 and founded Ostia Sciences to translate precision microbiome science into clinically validated products. He has led the company’s IP strategy, building a defensible portfolio spanning platform patents, formulation know-how, and brand assets, while driving partnerships, manufacturing readiness, and fundraising to increase enterprise value.
Dr. Michael Glogauer is an internationally recognized dental clinician scientist and leader in oral immunity, oral disease, and the links between oral and systemic health. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery, PhD, and Diploma in Periodontology at the University of Toronto and completed a postdoctoral fellowship at Harvard Medical School.
Dr. Glogauer is a Professor at the University of Toronto’s Faculty of Dentistry and serves as Head of Dentistry at University Health Network and Chief of Dental Oncology at the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre. His research has shaped the understanding of innate immunity in oral health and disease, with over 220 peer reviewed publications, multiple patents, and sustained funding from MRC and CIHR.
A Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences, Dr. Glogauer is a co-founder of Ostia Sciences, where he helps translate discoveries in oral immunology and microbiome science into clinically meaningful therapeutics.
Dr. Smith has over two decades of experience in the biotech industry, specializing in drug discovery, antimicrobial therapeutics, and strategic leadership. He has played a pivotal role in the formation and development of several biotechnology companies, holding more than 25 patents related to antimicrobial and cancer therapies.
Dr. Smith has authored over 50 peer-reviewed publications and founded the Biotech Analyst Group, offering in-depth analysis of technologies and patents. He earned his Doctorate in Biochemistry from the College of Medicine at the University of Florida and an M.B.A. in Finance and Competitive Strategy from the Warrington College of Business.
Mitch is a life sciences executive and medical device founder with a proven record of building successful early-stage companies. As Managing Director of Peony Investments VMW Ltd., he drives high-impact investments in life sciences, achieving a 94% CAGR in assets since 2017.
Previously, Mitch co-founded Mariner Endosurgery Inc., leading it through FDA clearance, product launches, and $180M in revenue, delivering a 30x return for investors. With an MBA from McMaster University and expertise in life sciences, Mitch is passionate about advancing transformative healthcare technologies.
Dan Samson is a dental industry executive with over 20 years of experience leading and scaling dental supply firms. As President of K-Dental Inc., a Safco Dental company, he is driving strategic initiatives to position the business as a national leader in Canada. Previously, Dan led Surgical Room Inc., transforming it into Canada’s top niche player in surgical dentistry before its successful acquisition by Safco Dental.
Dan holds an MBA in Strategy and Marketing from York University and a BA in Administrative and Commercial Studies from Western University. He is passionate about innovation, strategic growth, and advancing the dental industry.
Scientific Advisory Board
Dr. Barbour is an entrepreneur and molecular microbiologist building biotechnology companies around natural products and next-generation biotherapeutics. He co-discovered Salivaricin-10 and founded Ostia Sciences to translate precision microbiome science into clinically validated products. He has led the company’s IP strategy, building a defensible portfolio spanning platform patents, formulation know-how, and brand assets, while driving partnerships, manufacturing readiness, and fundraising to increase enterprise value.
Dr. Michael Glogauer is an internationally recognized dental clinician scientist and leader in oral immunity, oral disease, and the links between oral and systemic health. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery, PhD, and Diploma in Periodontology at the University of Toronto and completed a postdoctoral fellowship at Harvard Medical School.
Dr. Glogauer is a Professor at the University of Toronto’s Faculty of Dentistry and serves as Head of Dentistry at University Health Network and Chief of Dental Oncology at the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre. His research has shaped the understanding of innate immunity in oral health and disease, with over 220 peer reviewed publications, multiple patents, and sustained funding from MRC and CIHR.
A Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences, Dr. Glogauer is a co-founder of Ostia Sciences, where he helps translate discoveries in oral immunology and microbiome science into clinically meaningful therapeutics.
Dr. McLean is a Professor at the University of Washington School of Dentistry, where he holds appointments in the Departments of Periodontics and Oral Health Sciences, as well as an adjunct position in Microbiology. With over 20 years of experience, his research focuses on innovative genomic approaches to understanding microbial interactions and their role in oral health and disease.
Dr. McLean earned his MSc from the University of Guelph and PhD from the University of Southern California. He began his research career at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory and later led programs at the J. Craig Venter Institute. His work, funded by multiple NIH awards, explores microbial processes in the oral microbiome, including clinical studies on inflammatory responses to oral plaque bacteria and their connection to gingivitis.
Dr. Zenobia is the CEO of Os Salutem, LLC, and a board member of VitalizeDX. She has held pivotal roles across academia and industry, including research positions at the University of Washington and the University of Pennsylvania, and as a clinical scientist at Colgate-Palmolive.
Dr. Zenobia completed her PhD studying Porphyromonas gingivalis and pursued postdoctoral research on the host-immune landscape of the oral cavity. Her work spans inflammation, microbial dysbiosis, and clinical oral care interventions. She serves as an editor for leading oral health journals and continues to publish extensively, with contributions to Frontiers and Nature Oral Health.
Recognized as a thought leader, Dr. Zenobia lectures on integrative dental medicine and hosts the podcast “Let’s Get Oral.” She is committed to advancing oral health through education, innovation, and research.
Dr. Smith has over two decades of experience in the biotech industry, specializing in drug discovery, antimicrobial therapeutics, and strategic leadership. He has played a pivotal role in the formation and development of several biotechnology companies, holding more than 25 patents related to antimicrobial and cancer therapies.
Dr. Smith has authored over 50 peer-reviewed publications and founded the Biotech Analyst Group, offering in-depth analysis of technologies and patents. He earned his Doctorate in Biochemistry from the College of Medicine at the University of Florida and an M.B.A. in Finance and Competitive Strategy from the Warrington College of Business.
Dr. Thomas Nguyen is currently an assistant professor at the McGill Faculty of Dentistry and was previously the Interim Director of Predoctoral Periodontology at the Harvard School of Dental Medicine.