Walter Koch's Biography

Walter Koch, Vice President, Roche Molecular Systems

Walter H. Koch, Ph.D., has been in his current role of Vice President and Head of Global Research for Roche Molecular Systems since 2005. Dr. Koch is responsible for all RMD research and early development activities, including research efforts associated with biomarker discovery and validation, the development of new technologies with diagnostics potential such as next generation sequencing, and continuing improvements in the performance of existing real time PCR products and technologies. He joined RMS in 1998 as a Research Leader to evaluate the feasibility of developing microarray-based pharmacogenetic assays for clinical diagnostic use, resulting in the launch of the AmpliChip® CYP450 assay. From 2001-2004 he served as the Senior Director of the Pharmacogenetics Department, leading six scientific teams. In this role, he was responsible for development of genetic and pharmacogenomic assays using Affymetrix oligonucleotide microarray, linear array, and real-time PCR technologies and platforms. Prior to joining Roche he held several positions within the US FDA, including Acting Lab Chief of Immunochemistry and Research Biologist in the CBER’s Division of Transfusion Transmitted Disease, and Research Biologist positions in the Division of Molecular Biological Research & Evaluation, and the Division of Toxicology within CFSAN. He received a B.S. in Chemistry from Memphis State University, a Ph.D. in Toxicology and Pharmacology from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, and Postdoctoral training at the Johns Hopkins University School of Public Health.