| Howard C. Birndorf dedicated his career to scientific and technological inquiry that is advancing biomedical research, improving medical diagnostics, and impacting genetic testing and drug discovery, to the benefit of humanity. With a pioneering spirit and a bachelor of science degree from Oakland University in 1971, he went on to earn a master of science degree from Wayne State University in 1974, and to found and lead seven successful biotechnology companies over the next 25 years. In 1989, he was named San Diego Entrepreneur of the Year. In 1997, he received the Corporate Leadership Award from MSU and the Oakland University Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award. His vision and success also have been recognized on a national scale. The New York Times has called him “the Johnny Appleseed of the Biotechnology Forest.” He was a presidential appointee to the United States Department of Commerce Biotechnology Technical Advisory Committee. A number of U.S. patents have been awarded to Birndorf companies for trailblazing inventions. And, he has been named a Director of the Cancer Center of the University of California, San Diego. In 1993, he founded Nanogen, a company engaged in the development of technology that “integrates advanced microelectronics and molecular biology on proprietary semiconductor microchips”, a process that is revolutionizing the flexibility, speed, accuracy and efficiency of testing, analysis and research methods. He now serves as chairman of the board and Chief Executive Officer of Nanogen. As Oakland University itself engages in more determined exploration of the natural world, we salute his commitment to science, dedication to the field of biotechnology, impressive business acumen, and exemplary achievements. OU honored Howard Birndorf by conferring upon him the honorary degree of Doctor of Science, honoris causa, in 1998. |