Spotlight On: Support throughout the process: How we take you from assay development to scaled production with Tom O’Reilly

Q. What is your academic and professional background?

My academic background began with studying fine chemicals and pharmaceuticals in Ireland. I then went on to study biochemistry at the University of Wolverhampton, before joining the professional world.

My first role was at LifeScan, a Johnson & Johnson company based in Inverness, focusing on sensor development and program management.

I then transitioned into supply chain, sustaining existing products.

In 2021, I joined iGii. After speaking with the co-founders, who shared a similar background and vision, I was drawn to the company’s focus on new technology and the opportunity to build a strong team. The mix of innovation and R&D, along with the chance to shape the technology, was particularly appealing.

Q. Can you describe your current role at iGii?

I lead the sensor engineering activities, focusing on sensor design and manufacturing. My team of sensor engineers works closely with customers to translate their requirements into technical specifications, which we then transform into biosensors. We handle everything from initial design and material procurement to testing and collaboration with our in-house assay development scientists. My role serves as a crucial link between Sales and R&D throughout the design process.

Q. What do you find most exciting about the work you do?

The most exciting aspect of my work is breaking new ground in our field. We are one of only a few companies working with carbon nanomaterials – and (of course I’d say it) but the combination of our product and our team really stands out. Developing an exciting new material and integrating it into customers’ products is incredibly rewarding.

Q. Can you share a specific project or achievement at iGii that you’re particularly proud of?

Since joining iGii, I have taken on a broad set of responsibilities, including engineering and team building. One of my proudest achievements is the team we have built around developing this technology. We have brought in process excellence training and developed the skill sets of our engineers and scientists. I am proud of the people we have recruited and the contributions they have made.

Q. What skills does iGii have across the business that really stand out?

We have a range of individuals who bring experience from start-ups to scaling at high volumes.

There are also a lot of complementary skills – with biochemists who can help develop assays alongside our more manufacturing minded team members. We also have our Future Labs team working on the next use case for Gii.

It’s very much a team that’s greater than the sum of its parts. And we’re all focused on getting our clients products to market.

Q. What trends or innovations in your field are you most excited about?

There’s an increasing awareness of the need for more accessible Point of Care Testing. Rather than expensive machines that need skilled technicians to generate results.

Our Gii material and the capability of our team here is playing a significant role in making this possible at low cost and in a more sustainable way.

Q. Are there any upcoming projects or goals you’re particularly looking forward to?

We have several exciting projects underway now. Our focus is on continuing to innovate and develop our technology, with the ultimate aim of making point-of-care testing more accessible and affordable for everyone.