Everist Genomics Announces Nobel Prize Winning Biochemist Dr. Kary Mullis To Give Keynote Speech at Gala Dinner

ANN ARBOR, Mich., April 26, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Everist Genomics, a prognostics company focused on developing gene-based molecular assays with applications in cancer, cardiovascular, metabolic and neurodegenerative diseases, today announced that world-renowned biochemist and Nobel Prize winner Dr. Kary Mullis will be the keynote speaker for its June 5th Gala Dinner at the Field Museum in Chicago. The Gala event coincides with the 2011 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting and marks an opportunity to celebrate the pivotal role that scientific creativity and innovation plays in advancing the practice of medicine.

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Dr. Mullis won the 1993 Noble Prize in Chemistry for developing the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method of amplifying DNA, a process which multiplies a single, microscopic strand of the genetic material billions of times within hours, through a process of chemical reactions and repeated heating and cooling cycles.  PCR is hailed as one of the monumental scientific techniques of the twentieth century and has greatly advanced the study of DNA, paving the way for decoding the human genome and the development of advanced molecular diagnostics.  

Dr. Mullis is the author of several major patents, including PCR technology, a UV-sensitive plastic that changes color in response to light and a method to instantly mobilize the human immune system to neutralize invading pathogens and toxins. In addition to the Nobel Prize in chemistry, he was awarded the Japan Prize in 1993 for the invention of PCR, widely considered one of international science's most prestigious awards.

The theme of Dr. Mullis' speech is "A Celebration of the Curiosity and Inspiration behind Great Science in All its Forms."  Dr. Mullis will explore the historical context in which the scientific method evolved and how it influences our daily lives.  He will also talk about how 'curiosity and inspiration' came to him and led to his invention of the PCR method.

"Advances in the practice of medicine depend greatly on the creativity and inspiration that drives scientific innovation. With all of the great scientific minds that will be visiting Chicago, our Gala presents an opportunity to celebrate the ingenuity and contributions of all scientists and medical professionals," said Thomas Everist, chairman of the Board of Directors of Everist Genomics.  "We are delighted to have Dr. Mullis, with his tremendous scientific accomplishments and unparalleled expertise in the life science arena, as our guest speaker for this unique evening.  It's important to consider the advances in medicine that have been accomplished in the last twenty years and hope to accomplish in the next ten years.  Many of these accomplishments would not have been possible without scientific innovations such as the invention of PCR."

Attendees at the Everist Genomics Gala Dinner will include physicians, CEOs from leading life science companies around the world,  and inventors.  The event includes a private viewing of the Field Museum's Ancient Egypt exhibit and networking opportunities to explore new ideas in the areas of genetic science and molecular diagnostics.  

To inquire about attending the event or to learn more, please contact Everist Genomics at +1-734-355-0730 or email [email protected].

About Everist Genomics

Everist Genomics is a prognostics company focused on developing gene-based molecular assays for the prediction of cancer recurrence and proprietary point-of-care equipment for the evaluation and management of cardiovascular disease. Using its patented Evolver™ technology platform, Everist Genomics is successfully developing and commercializing entirely new classes of patent-protected molecular biomarkers and sensor technologies which employ proprietary equipment, devices and software to help physicians make individualized treatment and drug prescribing decisions.  The privately owned company was founded in 2002 and is located in Ann Arbor, Michigan.  For more information, please visit www.everistgenomics.com

SOURCE Everist Genomics