Chronix Biomedical Hires Oncology Expert

London, England-based Chronix Biomedical, which makes blood tests that can be used in cancer and organ transplant applications, has named P. Nicholas Plowman M.D., FRCR, FRCP to the position of chief oncology expert. He will also join the company’s medical advisory board.

Plowman has a distinguished career and is widely considered to be one of the United Kingdom’s leading oncology authorities. Since 2000 he has been the head of clinical oncology at Bartholomew’s Hospital and the Royal London Hospital. He sits on the Hospital Councils of the Bartholomew’s Hospital and is also senior oncologist to the Hospital for Sick Children. Plowman has written more than 300 research publications. His recognition as a leader and innovator in cancer diagnosis and treatment include the Roll of Honour by the International Union Against Cancer (UICC) in 1997 and the Royal College of Radiologists’ Frank Ellis Medal in 1999. Plowman graduated from Cambridge University with a degree in medical sciences and in natural sciences.

At Chronix, Plowman will be advising on three plasma tests that the company has developed. First, the Second Opinion test that helps doctors decide whether to send men with elevated prostate-specific antigens or women with suspicious mammogram results for a biopsy. Second, Delta Dot Plots, meant to be an accurate way to give oncologists timely feedback on whether conventional or targeted therapies are working. Third, Double Check cancer panels, which helps clinicians select actionable mutations with a blood test and monitor changes in mutations during therapy.

“We are delighted that Dr. Plowman has agreed to take on such an important role for us,” said Chronix CEO Howard Urnovitz. “He has an extremely distinguished career and is regarded with great esteem by fellow professionals in his field. Our Second Opinion tests and cancer profiling tests will enable Chronix to emerge as a leader in the cancer diagnostic test field. In addition to our current test menu, we anticipate that Dr. Plowman will provide significant guidance in the advancement of diagnostic cancer tests in our developmental pipeline. Chronix is fortunate to have a professional of Nick Plowman’s caliber on board.”