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ASU professor named 2012 Innovator of the Year in academia


Professor Wayne Frasch receives the 2012 Innovator of the Year Award in Academia
November 15, 2012

The Arizona Technology Council has named Arizona State University professor Wayne Frasch as the 2012 Innovator of the Year in academia. Frasch received the prestigious award during the Governor’s Celebration of Innovation awards gala, Nov. 8.

Frasch, a professor in ASU's School of Life Sciences, in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, developed a highly sensitive nanodevice that can be used for early detection of bioterrorist agents, diseases and pathogens.

“It’s a great honor to receive the Innovator of the Year award in academia,” said Frasch. “I was humbled to be a finalist, especially alongside the other creative and talented contenders.  I am especially grateful for my fellow researchers and collaborators who deserve recognition for all of their dedication and hard work.”

Frasch’s nanodevice improves upon available technologies in both medicine and national defense. His device is particularly sensitive and fast-acting, and has the potential to greatly improve early diagnosis of diseases.

“We are pleased that the Arizona Technology Council honored Professor Frasch for the hard work that went into creating his innovative biosensor,” said Brian Smith, director of ASU’s School of Life Sciences. “Not only is Wayne a talented professor, he is a skilled researcher who is making a real difference in our society. We are proud of his accomplishments.”

Frasch is the founder and CEO of an Arizona State University spinoff company called Attometrics, Inc. His work has led to nine patent applications, six of which were issued in the past year.

The Governor’s Celebration of Innovation event honors innovative leaders in technology from throughout the state of Arizona. The Arizona Technology Council and the Arizona Department of Commerce chose the finalists.