During his career as a genetics professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Dr. Fred Blattner became the first scientist to elucidate the complete DNA sequence of E. coli, the model bacterial organism for the Human Genome Project.

To support the earliest stages of this research, computer science student John Schroeder was hired in 1984 to co-create DNA sequencing software. Their first commercial product, desktop software for Sanger sequencing, was developed in John’s living room. The success of this early software led to the formation of DNASTAR, Inc. Initially based in Dr. Blattner’s home basement, the fledgling company quickly hired additional programmers and scientists and moved into the first of several commercial buildings.

Now 37 years later, DNASTAR is a global software company that is still proud to call Madison home. Our staff of thirty-two, including nine PhDs, works diligently to make sure DNASTAR remains the software of choice for life scientists worldwide.

Our founders continue to research and develop the latest features for Lasergene and our Nova Applications. Outside work, Dr. Blattner is an avid jazz musician and storyteller at “The Moth.” John is a multi-instrument musician who uses his vacation time to view eclipses around the world.