genomiQa, a start-up company originating from QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute in Brisbane, has appointed an ex-senior Roche executive as its new CEO.
Colin Albert has more than two decades commercial experience in start-ups and large pharmaceutical companies both in Australia and globally.
He was recently the commercial head of the Asia Pacific region for Roche Pharmaceuticals and regional general manager of the Asia Pacific region for Roche Foundation Medicine based in Singapore.
genomiQa’s uses bioinformatics in the analysis of the whole genome.
“Based on the high-quality genomic pipeline developed by genomiQa’s founders, Dr Nic Waddell and John Pearson, the company is poised to become a world leader in whole-genome analytics, and further, establish a role for whole genome analysis in routine clinical practice,” said Mr Albert.
“I am delighted to join a world-recognised team that is dedicated to commercialising research that will make a difference to patients’ lives, and to support Australia’s biopharmaceutical industry in developing breakthrough, innovative products to treat cancer and other diseases.”
The Chairman of the genomiQa board and Director and CEO of QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Professor Frank Gannon, said Mr Albert brought a rich and diverse set of skills, knowledge and business experience to the role.
“I am delighted to welcome Colin Albert as we enter a new and ambitious phase of the company,” said Professor Gannon.
“Under his leadership, genomiQa will reach its goal of becoming a global leader in whole-genome data analysis, both in Australia and abroad.
“genomiQa has ambitious plans to expand into China in the next 12 months and to launch genomiQa:CapeXLTM – which will provide whole genome analysis for cancer patients – and genomiQa:NGSCheckTM – a quality check for the output from next generation sequencing machines – onto the global market.
“Mr Albert brings a great combination of skills, experience and business acumen, which will ensure that these goals are reached.”