Michael Mahler Joins Exagen as Chief Scientific Officer 

Exagen Inc. has appointed Michael Mahler, Ph.D., as chief scientific officer. With an extensive background in immunology and autoimmune research, Dr. Mahler brings a wealth of expertise to his new position.

“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Mahler to Exagen,” Exagen President/CEO John Aballi stated. “His deep understanding of autoimmune research and commitment to scientific innovation will play a pivotal role in strengthening our diagnostic capabilities and advancing patient care.”

Dr. Mahler earned his Ph.D. from the Institute of Molecular Genetics at the University of Heidelberg, Germany. During his doctoral research, he worked at the Scripps Research Institute, more specifically in the laboratory of Prof. Eng Tan and Michael Pollard, pioneers in autoimmune research. At the same time, Dr. Mahler initiated a productive and lasting collaboration with one of his mentors, Dr. Marvin J. Fritzler, a thought leader in the field whose research spans a wide range of topics, including autoimmune disease, the biology of autoantigens, and novel diagnostic technologies.

Over the course of his career, Dr. Mahler has held key positions at various diagnostic companies, most recently serving as senior vice president of Research Development and Business Development at Werfen. His transformative work has led to the discovery of several novel autoantigens and the development of innovative diagnostic solutions. His scientific contributions have resulted in more than 300 peer-reviewed publications and numerous patents, advancing the accurate diagnosis of autoimmune diseases.

In his new role at Exagen, Dr. Mahler will spearhead strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing precision diagnostics for autoimmune diseases. His expertise will support Exagen’s development of cutting-edge tools to improve patient outcomes.

“I am very excited to join the Exagen team as they work to revolutionize the management of autoimmune diseases,” Dr. Mahler said. “The company is at an exciting stage with several projects already in motion. I’m especially energized by the opportunity to combine my 20-plus years of experience with the patient-centric approach developed by Exagen’s leadership team.”

Exagen Inc. provides autoimmune diagnostics, transforming care for patients with chronic and debilitating autoimmune conditions. Based in San Diego County, Exagen’s provides clarity in autoimmune disease decision-making and improves clinical outcomes through its testing portfolio. The company’s flagship product, AVISE CTD, enables clinicians to more effectively diagnose complex autoimmune conditions such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and Sjögren’s disease earlier and with greater accuracy. Exagen’s laboratory specializes in testing rheumatic diseases, delivering precise and timely results, supported by a full suite of AVISE-branded tests for disease diagnosis, prognosis, and monitoring. With a focus on research, innovation, education, and patient-centered care, Exagen addresses the ongoing challenges of autoimmune disease management.