ATHENS, Ohio -- Diagnostic Hybrids, Inc. (DHI), a company developed through Ohio University's Innovation Center, received an Emerging Technology Award from the Ohio Department of Development.

"On behalf of our 80 employees, DHI is very pleased and humbled to receive such lofty recognition from the Ohio Department of Development," said David Scholl, president and CEO of DHI. "There are many individuals and groups to thank for their tremendous support of DHI over the years. At the top of the list rests our customers, loyal investors and Ohio University."

The Emerging Technology Award is presented annually to recognize the accomplishments of small, technology-oriented companies in Ohio. It honors companies furthering current technologies or pursuing emerging ones.

DHI, founded in 1983, is pioneering the commercial use and manufacturing of genetically engineered cells for diagnostic applications, particularly in the areas of virology and endocrine disease. One of the company's patents involves a new cell freezing technology that could transform how all laboratories receive their tissue cell cultures.

The company, which experienced a doubling of sales in 2001, is on target to see sales double again in 2002 through its acquisition strategy. In February and July, DHI purchased two former cell culture competitors in Maryland and Washington.

"Our continued corporate growth has been possible because of ready access to a well trained, technically competent workforce that is right here in southeastern Ohio," Scholl said. " Also, the entrepreneurial climate in our region is at an all-time high. Investment capital is available for well managed, calculated risk taking."

DHI, located on the Ohio University campus, works closely with the Edison Biotechnology Institute and other university groups, offering internship and research experience as well as funding for students to work at international laboratories. David Wight, director of the Edison Biotechnology Institute, nominated the company for the award.