About Lybradyn
Our Focus
Lybradyn is a biotechnology development company focused on the discovery and maturation of novel genetic engineering, protein expression and fermentation systems.
We work with partners and clients to discover genetic systems, enhance metabolic function, and develop robust biosynthetic pathways for the production of enzymes and natural products.
History
Lybradyn was founded in late 2000.
In 2003, the company began a collaborative relationship with researchers at the University of Illinois at Chicago to commercialize protein products for military and agricultural applications.
In December 2004, Lybradyn opened its new research facility and headquarters in Oak Brook, Illinois, which enables the progressive growth of our scientific and administrative staff. The site is conveniently located in Chicago's western suburbs, close to airports and major transportation corridors.
In 2006 Lybradyn created its educational division, InquireBio to commercialize hands-on laboratory experimental kits for high school and college biology, biochemistry and molecular biology classes.
In 2007 Lybradyn entered the bio-energy business with the discovery of a novel approach for cultivating microbes in a modular solid-phase bioreactor.
In 2008 Lybradyn began the development of advanced research tools platforms focused on enhancing scalable protein expression and nucleic acid isolation.
Management
Wendy Aikens - Cofounder and President
Wendy received a M.A. in biology from California State University, Fullerton. She has 15 years experience in microbiology research within both academic and industrial environments. Her experience includes positions at Gensia Pharmaceuticals, Chiron Intraoptics, Erickson Cosmetics and the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign Department of Microbiology.
John Aikens - Cofounder and CEO
John received a Ph.D. in chemistry from the University of California, Irvine and held a postdoctoral study position in biochemistry and biophysics at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign. Over the last 15 years, he has been involved in research, business development and management positions at five start-up technology and biotechnology companies, and was a team member for the successful initial public offerings of Nanophase Technologies and MediChem Life Sciences. John currently sits on the COOL Energy Commission of La Grange Park.
Robert Turner - CTO
Robert earned a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign and worked with Paul Schimmel as a postdoctoral associate at the Scripps Research Institute. He has over 10 years of experience as a specialist in molecular engineering, protein expression and applied molecular biology. Prior to Lybradyn, Robert held a research position at ThermoGen/DeCode Life Sciences, in which he was responsible for biocatalyst discovery and development.
