Periodic Labs Raises $300M to Revolutionize Materials Science with AI
Periodic Labs Secures $300M to Merge AI and Materials Science
San Francisco, October 21, 2025 — Periodic Labs, a pioneering AI-driven scientific research startup co-founded by former OpenAI researcher Liam Fedus and ex-Google Brain scientist Ekin Dogus Cubuk, has raised $300 million in its inaugural funding round. The investment was spearheaded by Felicis Ventures, with participation from prominent angel investors and VC firms.
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From Concept to Lab: The Genesis of Periodic Labs
The company emerged from discussions between Fedus and Cubuk seven months ago. Recognizing advancements in robotic automation for material synthesis and improved accuracy in machine learning simulations, the duo identified an opportunity to accelerate scientific discovery through AI.
"Recent breakthroughs have made it feasible to simulate complex physical systems with unprecedented precision," explained Cubuk. "By combining experimental science with generative AI models, we can redefine how materials are developed."
Leadership with Deep AI Roots
Fedus brings expertise from his work on ChatGPT and subsequent model optimizations at OpenAI. His departure sparked intense interest from investors, some of whom proactively reached out with investment proposals before the company formally launched.
"Failed experiments contain as much value as successful ones for training our models," Fedus noted. "This approach could reshape scientific incentives beyond just publishing positive results."
Investor Confidence Runs High
Peter Deng of Felicis Ventures moved swiftly to secure participation after learning of Fedus's plans. "Liam's vision aligns perfectly with our thesis that AI must engage directly with physical-world experimentation," Deng stated.
The funding will accelerate:
- Establishment of advanced robotics laboratories
- Recruitment of interdisciplinary AI/science researchers
- Development of novel superconducting materials
Strategic Focus Areas
While still in its early stages, Periodic Labs has already:
- Assembled a team combining top-tier AI engineers and materials scientists
- Initiated proprietary research into energy-efficient material design
- Developed partnerships with academic institutions for data sharing
The company plans to publish preliminary findings within 12 months while protecting commercially viable discoveries through patents.
Key Points:
✅ $300M Series A led by Felicis Ventures with top-tier investor participation
🔬 AI-powered materials science combining robotics, simulations, and generative models
🌐 Founders' pedigree includes OpenAI ChatGPT development and Google Brain research
⚡ Initial focus on superconducting materials for energy applications
