SAN ANTONIO– bioAffinity Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: BIAF; BIAFW), a biotech company focused on developing noninvasive diagnostics for early-stage cancer detection, has appointed Dr. Gordon Downie, MD, PhD, as its new Chief Medical Officer. Dr. Downie brings more than 30 years of experience in pulmonary medicine, clinical research, and interventional pulmonology to the role.
The appointment comes at a critical time for the company as it expands access to its flagship diagnostic test, CyPath® Lung, which is designed to detect lung cancer through a noninvasive, real-time analysis of sputum samples. Dr. Downie will lead clinical strategy as the company scales its technology to meet increasing demand and explores additional applications for its platform.
“It’s a privilege to join bioAffinity at such a pivotal time,” said Dr. Downie. “There is an urgent need for a noninvasive and accurate diagnostic tool for lung cancer, particularly in helping manage indeterminate lung nodules. CyPath® Lung addresses a significant gap in clinical decision-making and has the potential to save lives.”
Dr. Downie has authored over 30 peer-reviewed publications, many of which focus on bronchoscopy innovation, early lung cancer diagnosis, and medical device development. His career spans academic medicine, private practice, and clinical leadership. He has directed FDA-approved research programs and served in national leadership roles with the American College of Chest Physicians, focusing on interventional pulmonology, lung cancer, and medical ethics.
Most recently, Dr. Downie was the Director of the Lung Nodule Clinic and Interventional Pulmonology at Titus Regional Medical Center in East Texas, where he addressed healthcare gaps in an underserved rural population facing increasing rates of chronic lung disease.
“Dr. Downie brings a rare combination of clinical expertise, research depth, and a dedication to innovation in care delivery,” said Maria Zannes, President and CEO of bioAffinity Technologies. “His leadership will be instrumental as we work to expand CyPath® Lung’s reach and broaden our diagnostic platform to address other diseases.”
Dr. Downie earned a PhD in experimental pathology from SUNY Buffalo and a medical degree from Northwestern University. He completed his residency and fellowship at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and held faculty positions at SUNY Buffalo and East Carolina University.
Beyond his medical achievements, Dr. Downie is also a former elite swimmer. He won a bronze medal for Great Britain in the 4×200-meter freestyle relay at the 1976 Montreal Olympics, as well as additional medals at the World Aquatics Championships. He was a four-time NCAA All-American at the University of Michigan.
“It’s that same spirit of discipline and determination that defines Dr. Downie’s approach to medicine,” said Zannes. “We are thrilled to welcome him to the team as we advance our mission to transform early cancer detection.”