FoodChain ID Testing, a leader in the development of DNA-based technologies for food safety and integrity testing applications, has appointed Dr. Heather Secrist to Chief Executive Officer of Global Operations effective January 2014.  Dr. Secrist was previously CEO of FoodChain ID Testing North America.

In this new position, Dr. Secrist assumes responsibility for worldwide testing services including FoodChain ID Testing’s laboratories in the U.S. and Germany and the Global Laboratory Alliance network of licensed laboratories.  She will guide FoodChain ID Testing’s strategic efforts in terms of technical services, global footprint, and integration of FoodChain ID Testing’s products and services into the offerings of the other members of the FoodChain ID group of companies.

“This is a natural extension of responsibilities for Dr. Secrist,” according to Ken Ross, CEO of FoodChain ID. “As CEO of FoodChain ID Testing NA, Inc. since 2010, she oversaw expansion of the product and service line, guided R&D programs to maintain the company’s position at the forefront of PCR-based testing technology, and managed the multi-site technology transfer program.  She has effectively taken over the lead technical role after Dr. John Fagan’s retirement in 2013 and we’re excited to have her assume increased technical and operational responsibility while guiding FoodChain ID Testing’s future growth.”  Dr. Secrist has 19 years of experience in the biotechnology industry and received her B.S. from Trinity University and a Ph.D. in Immunology from Washington University.

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