Prototype of the Applied Biosystems Automated Gene Sequencing machine (1987)
Image Source: collection.sciencemuseumgroup.org.uk

Prototype of the Applied Biosystems Automated Gene Sequencing machine (1987)

Detail map of Foster City, California, United States Overview map of Foster City, California, United States

A: Foster City, California, United States

Lloyd M. Smith of Applied Biosystems Invents the First Automated DNA Sequencing Machine

1987
photo of Lloyd M. Smith

Lloyd M. Smith

In 1987 Lloyd M. Smith, working with  Applied Biosystems, Foster City, California, invented the first commercial automated DNA sequencing machine, based on Leroy Hood’s technology. It used the Sanger sequencing method, a technology which formed the basis of the “first generation” of DNA sequencers[2][3] and enabled the completion of the human genome project in 2001.[4]

Timeline Themes

Technology / Engineering
Computing in Medicine & Biology / Bioinformatics
Science
Medicine