DNA Software doubles staff in downtown Ann Arbor

DNA Software has been in Ann Arbor since 2000, but it really started to hit its stride just last year. That’s when the downtown-based firm solidified its funding and doubled its staff to 15 people and a few independent contractors. It’s also working to set up an internship program with local colleges. “We’re working with the local talent to make a difference in Ann Arbor,” says Jeff Machak, vice president of business development for DNA Software.The software company recently hired a Kalamazoo College graduate. Machak is even a Pfizer refugee that the company recently hired. It currently has a couple of job openings and is looking to hire a few more people by the end of the year.DNA Software creates software that simulates how drugs interact with the DNA of things like bacteria and pathogens. This DNA thermo-dynamics (technology spun off from Wayne State University) provide accurate diagnostic tests on bacteria that are used to help predict how maladies, such as those caused by flu, evolve.”The Centers for Disease Control uses our technology to help predict some of these pandemics,” Machak says.The company plans to use that technology for drug discovery in things like antibiotics. That way when dangerous bacteria mutates, DNA Software’s technology could possibly have an antibiotic ready to handle it.Source: Jeff Machak, vice president of business development for DNA SoftwareWriter: Jon Zemke