Epigem
Epigem was a finalist in two categories in the annual Biomedical Awards 2013, hosted by Bionow: the Innovation and Technology award; and the Promising Technologist of the Year award.
The specialist microfluidics and printed electronics company was recognised for its integrated microfluidics technology. This is unique in its ability to undertake multiple functions in miniature including sample preparation (blood, milk, saliva,soil etc) through to analysis using a wide range of detection methods.
Epigem commercially supplies to instrument OEMs microfluidic processor boards for automated, high throughput bioanalysis and flow cells for simulation of natural microenvironments for drug discovery applications.
In the second of the awards, Phil Summersgill, Epigem’s microfluidics device fabrication and customer support manager, was nominated for the promising technologist of the year award.
Phil has made a substantial contribution to biomedicine as an ex-ICI apprentice with creative mechanical engineering skills. His technical know-how has helped Epigem grow its microfluidics activity from a standing start.
Over the last 10 years, Phil has personally supported more than 100 Epigem customers and has fast-tracked the development of several medical projects. He is a named inventor of two of Epigem’s key microfluidics patents and has many other patents from different fields.
Tim Ryan, managing director of Epigem, said: “It’s great when the innovation practiced day-in-day-out in Epigem is recognised externally. We will build on this success by developing new products and services in the fields of microfluidics and other micro-engineering markets.”
Phil Summersgill added: “I am thrilled to have been shortlisted for this award. Epigem is a very supportive environment where I am encouraged to develop new and creative approaches to the technical challenges faced by our customers. This is good news for the company and celebrates what we are best at – invention in micro-engineering.”
The 2013 Biomedical Awards, hosted by Bionow, were presented at the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art on Gateshead Quays, 28 February.