SPRINGDALE, Ark.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--NOWDiagnostics (NOWDx) today announced the appointment of Jody Douglas Berry, Ph.D. as chief scientific officer (CSO). Dr. Berry, a distinguished scientific leader with over two decades of experience in infectious diseases, brings a wealth of expertise in diagnostics and therapeutics to the role. He will guide the company's scientific, technological and research operations, which will enable NOWDx's next phase of growth.
A recognized international expert in immunoassay development, antibody technology, and infectious diseases, Dr. Berry has over two decades of commercial, government and academic experience. Dr. Berry earned international recognition for his contributions to immunoassay development, antibody technology, and protein design. Notably, he was the first to develop neutralizing antibodies to type SARS-CoV-1 and prove that the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the spike protein of SARS-CoV-1 is the protective domain for the virus. He utilized this experience nearly two decades later to develop groundbreaking products to help in the fight against SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19).
"The prospect of reengaging in infectious diseases and spearheading lateral flow diagnostics at NOWDx is exciting. I am eager to collaborate with the team to develop innovative, highly sensitive, and cost-effective tests to combat some of the most challenging pathogens affecting humanity," said Dr. Berry. "I am also impressed by the strength of the NOWDx executive team— top-notch diagnosticians with outstanding track records."
Dr. Berry previously served as CSO and senior vice president of product development and innovation at Aspira Women's Health, an AI-based gynecological diagnostic company. He was also the CSO of OraSure Technologies, where he worked on the breakthrough development and EUA approval of the first integrated swab antigen test for COVID-19 (InteliSwab®) and the first 510(k) approved Oraquick® Ebola rapid antigen detection device. Dr. Berry was pivotal in securing over $100 million in funding for OraSure from BARDA, leading to manufacturing expansion and DPA Title 2, which continues to dominate OraSure's revenue. Dr. Berry has held other held leadership roles at BD Biosciences, Cangene Corporation and the National Microbiology Laboratory of the Public Health Agency of Canada.
"We are at a pivotal time at NOWDx, following our recent submission of a De Novo application to the FDA for our over-the-counter in-home test for Syphilis—a national epidemic. Dr. Berry brings a proven track record of innovation and scientific achievement in small and large Fortune 500 companies that will be invaluable as we continue forward," said Robert Weigle, CEO of NOWDx.
In response to the surging number of syphilis and congenital syphilis cases nationwide, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced earlier this year that it is taking action to slow the spread through the establishment of the National Syphilis and Congenital Syphilis Syndemic (NSCSS) Federal Task Force.
"I am very pleased Jody has joined our team. He adds phenomenal capabilities to our exceptionally talented group of scientists and engineers. I look forward to working alongside him as we build a company that will change healthcare as we know it," said Kevin Clark, co-founder of NOWDx.
About NOWDiagnostics (NOWDx)
NOWDx develops and manufactures "Touch to Test" over-the-counter and point of care diagnostic tests that yield results in minutes. Its patented approach allows for virtually any immunological assay to be accurately performed onsite in one step using a tiny amount of capillary blood or, in some cases, saliva. NOWDx envisions a world where people have greater access to in-home testing with in-home results—in minutes. It is committed to changing healthcare by providing accessible, affordable, and accurate testing for all.
