Michael Rapp

Michael Rapp is a seasoned scientist with extensive experience in product development, particularly in the field of DNA sequencing consumables at Illumina, where responsibilities include research-to-launch processes and leadership in mechanical operations. Rapp has been instrumental in commercializing platforms such as Spatial Transcriptomics and various sequencing technologies. A subject matter expert in thin film engineering and materials characterization, Rapp has also contributed to Failure Analysis teams and managed vendor relationships for outsourced components. Prior to Illumina, Rapp held several positions in product development and research, including at The Clorox Company and as a National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellow at UC Santa Barbara, where a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering was earned. Rapp’s foundational education includes a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Engineering from Virginia Tech.