UK based molecular diagnostics company Biofortuna has appointed a new chairman to lead the next phase of growth.

Life sciences expert Ian Johnson will take on the role at Biofortuna with previous chairman Mark Hurley remaining on the board as a non-executive director.

Biofortuna, based in the Wirral, specialises in proprietary freeze dried diagnostics and contract services. It recently announced a £1.5m funding round for the company to further develop its diagnostic assays and invest in its freeze drying production capability.

Former chairman Hurley said: “Over the years I have thoroughly enjoyed being chairman and seeing the company grow and mature. I would like to welcome Ian Johnson as our new chairman who has relevant significant experience and will lead the company into its next phase of growth.”

Ian has spent his business career in life sciences. He was founder and CEO of Biotrace International plc, a leading provider of rapid microbial testing systems and reagents, which was sold to 3M for $100M. Ian is currently non-executive chairman of Celsis Group Ltd and Cyprotex PLC, both Harwood Private Equity investments, a company for which Ian acts as an operational advisor.  Ian has served on the boards of various public and private companies in strategic consultancy and business development capacities, including Evans Analytical Group, MyCelx Technologies Corporation and AOI Medical Inc.

Speaking about his appointment, Johnson said: “I am sure the board would join me in thanking Mark for his stewardship to date and I look forward to building on his achievements as the company commences a new phase of development.”

Dr Simon Douglas, Biofortuna CEO, said: “I am delighted to welcome Ian as the chairman. His significant experience and successful biotech track record will be invaluable for the company. The board, management team and I look forward to working with him.”

Biofortuna is a leader in freeze drying and stabilisation of molecular diagnostic assays. It offers a contract IVD development and production service in its FDA and ISO13485 approved facilities to companies looking to convert liquid tests into freeze dried kits, and delivering simple one step protocols. It also has a number of its own freeze dried molecular diagnostic products targeted at the transplantation, disease identification and pharmacogenetic markets.

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