Detect-ION is a Deep-Tech startup founded in October 2021 and develops sensors and systems in a dedicated state-of-the-art 4000 sqft laboratory located in Tampa, FL. We thrive in solving hard, high-value detection problems that require a multidisciplinary effort at the intersection of organic chemistry, biochemistry, gas chromatography, mass spectrometry, vacuum technology, data analytics, low power electronics, system engineering and AI/ML algorithm to innovate the most pioneering sensing capabilities driven by mission-specific requirements from the US government and the industry.
It's founding team, previously at SRI International, has been a performer in the IARPA MAEGLIN and DARPA SIGMA+ CWMD programs to detect trace chemical signatures in ambient air for strategic intelligence collection and early warning systems, respectively . As a plus-up effort in the MAEGLIN program, the sensor system was successfully demonstrated on a US Air Force C-130 aircraft for real-time detection and quantification of chemical threats. Most recently Detect-ION supported DHS ChemBioTesting to detect chemical and biological threats inside the subway environment in New York City.
With a diverse technical background and a relentless "scientist-turned-entrepreneur" grit, Ashish founded Detect-ION in 2021 to solve hard CBRNE sensing problems. At Detect-ION, he is applying his 19 years of S&T experience and a proven CRAD track-record ($36M) in business development, technical execution and programmatic management to solve the next set of sensing challenges in the area of national security, environmental monitoring and health diagnostics. Ashish has a PhD in Electrical Engineering from University of South Florida and has developed a cross-domain expertise spanning across electrical engineering, mass spectrometry, gas chromatography, microfabrication, vacuum components and integration, system engineering and rigorous testing and evaluation of CBRNE sensors in real-world applications.
Samantha Ollerton brings a wealth of unique experience to Detect-ION, drawing on her successful tenures at GreyScan, OSI Rapiscan, and Mass Spec Analytical developing revolutionary technologies and products for enhanced safety, survivability, and productivity. With over 20 years of experience in security, forensics, pharmaceuticals, and environmental technology markets, Samantha has a proven track record of delivering groundbreaking products and innovative services and solutions across a variety of measurement science markets. Ollerton's expertise will play a key role in guiding Detect-ION towards market leadership and continued innovation.
Dr. Baljit Ubhi is a distinguished life sciences professional with over 20 years of experience in the pharmaceutical and academic sectors, specializing in mass spectrometry technologies. She has successfully led businesses and launched innovative products throughout her career. As a Consultant, Advisor, and Fractional Leader in biotech, Baljit excels in driving product-market fit, marketing, and business development for start-ups. A passionate advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion, Baljit mentors women in science and actively contributes to several boards and committees within the life sciences industry. She is also the president and founder of the South Asians in Mass Spectrometry community, established in 2022. At Detect-ION, Baljit will forge the initiatives of customer discovery and product-market fit for its maturing technologies and facilitate the productization path for identified high-impact applications.