The Phenometrics Story

Phenometrics, Inc., is a scientific instrument and research company dedicated to accelerating algal discoveries and supporting algae science research.

Internationally distinguished for his work on photosynthesis, Phenometrics co-founder Dr. David Kramer and his colleagues developed several diagnostic technologies and instruments to meet the unique requirements of his lab's research in photosynthesis. In July 2010, when the photo bioreactor prototype was displayed at an NAABB conference the attendees' response was immediate. The need to identify algal strains is so pervasive and critical, the photo bioreactor was instantly in high demand. Phenometrics, Inc., was created to bring this product to market and address this fundamental industry need.

The Phenometrics Photo Bioreactor (PBR) and Sensor Matrix System is not limited in its application to the biofuel industry. It can be applied to the algae food and agriculture industries as well as waste management applications.

We believe the future of algae biofuel relates directly to the future of our nation as we struggle to develop renewable energy alternatives and lessen our dependence on fossil fuels. Phenometrics is proud to be a partner in this quest.

The Phenometrics Team 

Michael Chaparian, PhD:  As CEO of Phenometrics, Mike brings over 25 years of experience in the life sciences. Most recently, he served as the CEO/CSO of SelectX Pharmaceuticals, a venture-backed company focusing on the discovery of novel therapeutics based on a chemical genetics drug discovery platform. Prior to SelectX, Mike founded OmniScience Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and served as its President and Chief Scientific Officer from 1997 through 2002. Concurrent with his role at OmniScience, Mike was the Director of Biotechnology Development at Arizona State University. Prior to OmniScience, Mike founded and served as General Manager of Blue Planet Technologies, an environmental biotechnology company. Prior to Blue Planet, Mike was the Technical Director at Gage Products Company, a specialty chemicals company. Dr. Chaparian holds a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from Wayne State University School of Medicine, completed post doctoral training in the molecular biology of blood clotting disorders at Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, and holds a BS degree in chemistry from Michigan Technological University. He has served as a board member and advisor to several biotechnology companies.

Frederick (Rick) Loomis: Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Mr. Loomis has over 30 years of sales management experience in the biotech industry with specialties in fermentation, instrumentation and drug discovery tools. Mr. Loomis was part of the team which developed the world's first computer-controlled fermentor.

Douglas MacRae: Mr. MacRae brings biotechnology experience to Phenometrics including fermentation production management at Draths Corporation and research at Michigan Biotechnology Institute.

Dr. David Kramer: Dr. David Kramer is Chairman of Phenometrics' Scientific Advisory Board. Dr. Kramer, a biophysicist, is a Hannah Distinguished Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at Michigan State University. Dr. Kramer is internationally recognized for his work on photosynthesis and is the author of over 135 scientific papers published in science journals worldwide.

Board of Directors

Michael Chaparian, PhD, Chairman

Ruben Derderian: Ruben is an accomplished corporate leader with more than 35 years of executive-level business experience. A Michigan State University alumnus, Derderian began his executive career as President of Sharplan Lasers in 1988. He joined Herman Miller as Vice President of the Milcare Division in 1990. In 1994, he was named President of Leica's US Microscopy Division and in 1996 he became President and CEO of Draeger Medical, Inc, a worldwide manufacturer and distributer of medical devices. . He also has served on the Board of Directors of Leica Microscopy World Wide, Draeger Medical Ag. GmbH, the Anesthesia Patient Safety Foundation, Michigan Instruments, and NelPretec.

Mimi Hall: Co-founder of Phenometrics, Ms. Hall has over 25 years of senior level management experience of several successful for-profit and not-for-profit corporations.