Seres Therapeutics Cuts 25% of Workforce Following FDA Feedback on Microbiome Therapy Trial
Seres Therapeutics is cutting about 25% of its staff to conserve resources for a phase 2 clinical trial of its microbiome-based therapy SER-155, aimed at preventing bloodstream infections in adults undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplants15.
The layoffs are part of cost-reduction measures following 'constructive' feedback from the FDA regarding the protocol for the upcoming phase 2 study, with interim results expected within 12 months of the trial start1.
Severance costs from the job cuts are estimated between $1 million and $1.4 million, and staff essential for advancing the trial preparations are being retained1.
Seres' cash reserves are projected to run out by March 2026, and the company aims to lengthen its financial runway 'well into' the second quarter of next year through these layoffs and other operational streamlining1.
The company is actively seeking additional capital to support both the SER-155 trial and its broader product candidate pipeline, which includes applications for inflammatory diseases1.
This move reflects a broader trend in the biopharma sector in 2025, with job cuts and restructuring increasing as companies respond to financial pressures and shifting trial outcomes35.
Sources:
1. https://www.fiercebiotech.com/biotech/seres-shrinks-headcount-25-fund-phase-2-study-biotherapeutic
3. https://www.biopharminternational.com/view/what-sareptas-layoffs-and-others-across-biopharma-mean-for-industry-professionals