DNA Electronics, inventors of semiconductor DNA sequencing technology and developers of a new, revolutionary point-of-need test for bloodstream infections, will expand and relocate its U.S. operations from Albuquerque, New Mexico, to San Diego, California. The move is expected to be completed by the end of 2016.

According to company officials, located in an area recognized globally as a hub for life sciences and technology, DNA Electronics Inc. will be ideally situated to grow its experienced team. The relocation to San Diego is essential as DNAe enters the final development and manufacturing stages for launch of its rapid point-of-need in vitro diagnostic (IVD) for bloodstream infections. The Company intends to expand capacity significantly, increasing its US-based headcount from 29 to over 50 and building a specialized clinical diagnostic manufacturing facility, clinical testing laboratories and a commercial team.

Victor Esch, CEO, DNA Electronics Inc. said: “Albuquerque has been a fantastic place to build our innovation-led business and develop our technology over the past decade. As we transition into our next stage of development, building our operations towards the launch of our pioneering test for serious blood infections, San Diego offers us the opportunity to expand our workforce and exploit opportunities within the San Diego life sciences hub.

“The new site will be close to our major development partners and suppliers, the clinical diagnostic expertise to grow our team further and great transport links which positions us ideally for forthcoming clinical trials and manufacturing. We are proud of our heritage and will be maintaining strong links with our partners in Albuquerque including with the University of New Mexico and TriCore Reference Laboratories.”

Prof. Chris Toumazou, Executive Chairman, DNAe said: “We are making great progress in the development of our bloodstream infections test and, with our £25 million Citibank facility (equal to about 37.767 million US dollars) in place, we have the finances to enable us to invest in the staff, R&D and facilities needed as we progress rapidly towards the launch of our first test system in 2017.

“The expansion of US operation is central to achieving this objective, and to bringing a much needed point-of-need test to the infectious disease management setting. We look forward to completing clinical development and to begin manufacturing on-site,” he added.

The increase in capacity will create skilled job opportunities in specialty manufacturing, clinical development, regulatory and commercial positions. All existing staff at the Albuquerque site have been offered roles in San Diego with most expected to relocate throughout 2016.