Stratos Genomics Inc announced the addition of Heiner Dreismann, PhD, to its board of directors. The appointment increases board membership to seven.

Dr Dreismann, 57, is recognized as a driving force behind molecular biologists’ adoption of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique in the 1990s for use in basic research and drug discovery laboratories. With PCR technology, researchers can amplify a few copies of a piece of DNA across several orders of magnitude, generating thousands to millions of copies of a particular DNA sequence. The technique continues to be important to researchers today, especially in the areas of modern biotechnology and genetics.
While CEO of Roche Molecular Diagnostics, Dr Dreismann led the development and commercialization of an expansive portfolio of PCR products, sustaining Roche’s industry leadership in Molecular Diagnostics.

"Heiner guided the world leader in molecular diagnostics, and we are very proud that he is willing to share his experience as a member of Stratos Genomics’ board," said Allan Stephan, chief executive officer of Stratos Genomics. "We look forward to his contribution to our strategic plan development as we move toward the introduction of our unique genome sequencing technology."

Dr Dreismann added, "I believe that Stratos Genomics’ technology has the potential to radically transform the molecular diagnostics industry by, for the first time, performing individual whole genome sequencing at very low costs. It is a privilege to join this exciting and dynamic team, and I look forward to working closely with Al and the board members during the next stages of Stratos Genomics’ growth."

Prior to serving as chief executive officer of Roche Molecular Diagnostics, Dr Dreismann held other senior positions within Roche in the areas of global business development, including business unit manager for PCR and microbiology, as well as in manufacturing and research and development for microbiology and infectious diseases. He received a master’s degree in biology and a doctorate in microbiology/molecular biology from Westfalische Wilhelms University in Muenster, Germany.

Dr Dreismann completed post-doctoral studies in the investigation of gram-negative bacteria genetics with the French Center for Nuclear Research in Saclay, France.

In recent years, Dr Dreismann has served as a director of several public and privately held diagnostic companies.