Dr. Philip Hemken, Ph.D. Principal Research Scientist, RUO Assay Development, Core Lab R&D, Abbott Laboratories

Dr. Philip Hemken, a seasoned scientist with over 26 years at Abbott Laboratories, currently serves as a Principal Research Scientist in the Diagnostics Division. His expertise lies in managing a research-use-only (RUO) prototype assay development team. Dr. Hemken’s educational journey began with a BSc in Microbiology (Chemistry Minor) from Iowa State University of Science and Technology in 1986. He furthered his academic pursuits, earning an MA in Biotechnology from Washington University in St. Louis (1991) and a Ph.D. in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology from Iowa State University of Science and Technology (1996). His postdoctoral work at the Biology Division of Argonne National Laboratories (1996-1997) further honed his scientific acumen.

Throughout his tenure, Dr. Hemken has made significant contributions to Abbott’s Global Biologics Discovery organization (2016-2023). Notably, he led the Protein Engineering Team from 2021 to 2023. His expertise extends to managing the production of recombinant biologics for 30 immunoassay development projects. During his tenure in Automated Immunoassay Development (2005-2016), he successfully completed 15 immunoassay prototyping projects.

Dr. Hemken’s prolific career includes 42 publications and 43 patent applications, with 8 pending and 14 granted patents. His commitment to advancing diagnostics underscores Abbott’s mission to improve global healthcare.