Former Pfizer exec Stephen Williams joins Venaxis board

Venaxis has appointed former Pfizer VP Dr Stephen Williams to its board of directors.

Dr Williams, who is currently chief medical officer at SomaLogic, has years of experience in diagnostic imaging and biomarker discovery, which will benefit Venaxis as it prepares to clear and commercialise its protein biomarker-based assay for appendicitis.

Dr Williams said: "The APPY1 Test is an excellent example of how characterisation of clinically relevant biomarkers can produce useful tools for addressing important diagnostic challenges.

“With the potential to reduce the safety risks associated with current diagnostic imaging techniques in the emergency setting, I believe there is significant clinical need and utility for the APPY1 Test.”

Dr Williams joined SomaLogic in 2009, leading the development of its protein biomarkers and clinical diagnostics.

He joined Pfizer in 1989, and spent 18 years at the company, working in both the UK and US and holding roles that included worldwide head, clinical technology.

In addition, Dr Williams served on the National Advisory Council for the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering from 2004 to 2007 and the executive Committee of the Biomarkers Consortium run by the Foundation for NIH from 2005-2007.