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Holly Ganz, PhD

Chief Science Officer
AnimalBiome

Holly H. Ganz, PhD
Chief Science Officer & Co-founder, AnimalBiome

Dr. Holly H. Ganz is a microbiologist and passionate advocate for advancing pet health through microbiome science. As Chief Science Officer and co-founder of AnimalBiome, she leads efforts to develop microbiome-based diagnostics and restorative supplements that improve the oral and gut health of companion animals. Her mission is to translate cutting-edge microbiome research into actionable solutions that enhance pet longevity and well-being.

Holly’s journey into translational research began in 2015 with KittyBiome, a citizen science project launched as part of her research at the University of California, Davis, in collaboration with Dr. Jonathan Eisen. Her work revealed the widespread impact of microbiome imbalances on pet health—particularly in digestive, skin, and immune-related conditions—highlighting the urgent need for better diagnostics and therapeutics. This insight led her to co-found AnimalBiome, where she continues to pioneer microbiome-based interventions that empower veterinarians and pet parents with science-backed solutions.

Holly earned her PhD from UC Davis, where she studied the co-evolution of microbes and animals. She later received a National Science Foundation postdoctoral fellowship to investigate the genetic factors influencing the spread of fungal infections in animal populations. Her subsequent research at UC Berkeley focused on bacterial pathogens in soil and their impact on wildlife. Returning to UC Davis, she worked at the School of Veterinary Medicine and the Genome Center, delving into the microbiomes of companion animals.

At AnimalBiome, Holly remains dedicated to bridging the gap between research and real-world impact, ensuring that microbiome science drives innovation in veterinary care.

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