We’re pleased to highlight Dr. Thomas Saunders, who joined Ozgene six months ago as Consulting Chief Scientific Director. In this role, Thom works closely with both the Australian and U.S. teams to support the transfer and ongoing optimization of processes as Ozgene expands its U.S. operations.

With his deep expertise in genetically engineered mouse and rat models, as well as gene-editing methodologies, Thom plays a key role in supporting Ozgene’s Strategic Partnering team, engaging directly with customers to advance their research initiatives and drive customer-focused innovation.

In November 2024, Thom took on the role of IACUC Chair for Ozgene LLC in Indianapolis, at the time of the site’s successful 3-year AAALAC re-certification review. The site received nine commendations and a recommendation for continued full certification.

Before joining Ozgene, Thom was Director Emeritus of the University of Michigan Transgenic Animal Core Facility and Professor Emeritus of Genetic Medicine at the University of Michigan. Under his leadership, the Transgenic Core established a world-class track record in producing genetically engineered mice, rats, and mouse embryonic stem cells, advancing both disease modeling and gene function studies. In 2023 he published a compilation of gene editing methods for animal models is titled “Transgenesis: Methods and Protocols” (https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-0716-2990-1). Precise gene targeting made possible by CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing will advance biomedical research and our understanding of disease mechanisms.

Thom has also been a longstanding member of the International Society for Transgenic Technologies (ISTT), serving on its board of directors for many years. He is a recognized authority on transgenic technologies, both nationally and internationally.