Company Filing History:
Years Active: 2001
Title: Innovations in Microfabrication: The Contributions of Stephen J Williams
Introduction
Stephen J Williams is a notable inventor based in Berkeley, CA. He has made significant contributions to the field of microfabrication, particularly in the development of integrated devices for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) applications. His work has implications for various scientific and medical fields, enhancing the efficiency and reliability of PCR processes.
Latest Patents
Williams holds a patent for a "Process for microfabrication of an integrated PCR-CE device and products produced by the same." This innovative device is a fully integrated monolithic small volume PCR-CE device fabricated using thin film metal heaters and thermocouples. It is designed to thermally cycle sub-microliter PCR volumes, demonstrating successful amplification of PCR fragments on a PCR-CE chip. The process incorporates a linear polyacrylamide surface coating and the addition of BSA to the amplification buffer, achieving amplification efficiencies comparable to positive controls. The micro-reactor significantly reduces the time required for amplification while operating in the sub-microliter regime. Williams' invention addresses critical issues related to microfabrication, such as the reliability of metal coatings and the prevention of electrolysis in PCR-CE chips.
Career Highlights
Stephen J Williams is currently employed at Affymetrix, Inc., where he continues to advance the field of microfabrication. His work has led to the development of devices that improve the efficiency of PCR processes, which are essential in various applications, including genetic testing and research.
Collaborations
Williams has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Richard A Mathies and Peter C Simpson. These collaborations have contributed to the advancement of technologies in the field of microfabrication and PCR applications.
Conclusion
Stephen J Williams is a pioneering inventor whose work in microfabrication has led to significant advancements in PCR technology. His innovative approaches continue to influence the scientific community and improve the efficiency of molecular biology applications.