HINJ presented Rutgers University and Infinity BiologiX (IBX) with its HINJ Excellence in Research and Innovation Award for their breakthrough research in developing the “saliva test” to identify COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2). The award was bestowed during the Research and Development Council of New Jersey’s 41st annual Edison Patent Awards event on November 12.
“HINJ recognizes Rutgers and Infinity BiologiX for pioneering an innovative collection method to expand, accelerate and improve the accuracy of testing to detect patients infected with COVID-19. Congratulations for your contribution to protecting public health – you have made New Jersey proud,” said Dean J. Paranicas, president and chief executive officer of HINJ.
“This groundbreaking test, granted Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) by the Food and Drug Administration, allows for broader screening than the nose and throat swab,” Paranicas added. “The new, easy-to-use format is key to increasing the number of people tested daily for COVID-19 and returning their results in a timely manner, so patients who test positive can quickly isolate to prevent further transmission of the virus.”
In accepting the award, Dr. Andrew Brooks, scientific and chief executive officer for IBX and an adjunct professor of genetics said, “I am honored to accept this award from HINJ on behalf of IBX. We look forward to a continuing collaboration with Rutgers as IBX works towards developing the next generation of diagnostics, therapeutics and research in the genomics, precision and regenerative medicine arenas.”
Rutgers-New Brunswick Chancellor Chris Molloy added, “The innovative work of Dr. Brooks and his team typifies the kind of impact that Rutgers’ scholars have every day in health care and a range of other fields that benefit New Jersey, the nation and the world. During this unprecedented time in history, Rutgers is proud to be contributing solutions that help mitigate the spread of Covid-19 around the world.”