PerSeptive Biosystems

PerSeptive Biosystems was a leading life science instrumentation company that revolutionized the analysis and purification of proteins and nucleic acids. Founded in 1989 by Noubar Afeyan, the company developed several landmark technologies, including POROS perfusion chromatography and the Voyager line of MALDI-TOF mass spectrometers. These tools significantly accelerated the drug discovery and development process by providing high-speed, high-resolution analytical capabilities. The company also produced the Expedite line of DNA and RNA synthesizers, which became industry standards for oligonucleotide production. In 1998, the company was acquired by Perkin-Elmer for approximately $360 million, becoming a core part of the Applied Biosystems division. Its legacy continues through the widespread use of its chromatography and mass spectrometry platforms in the biopharmaceutical industry today.