Who We Are
The people and problems that make syGlass possible
syGlass Key Contacts
Michael Morehead
Cofounder, Chief Executive Officer
Michael is a computer scientist, entrepreneur, medical dropout, cancer survivor, and amateur long-distance runner. A lifelong learner, Michael is interested in applying technology to create a better world through education. He holds degrees in chemistry and computer science from West Virginia University.
Dr. George Spirou
Cofounder, Chief Science Officer
George is a neuroscientist who manages an active, NIH-funded laboratory, and has a longstanding interest in 3D visualization of biological structure His background in physics, philosophy, neuroscience, and biomedical engineering drive his enthusiasm to leverage AR/VR in research and teaching. His lab is an intensive user site for syGlass, helping to conceptualize new iterations of the software. He employs syGlass to teach 3D and 4D neuroscience concepts to students using images collected using cutting edge research and clinical instruments.
Dr. Gianfranco Doretto
Cofounder
Gianfranco has a broad background in computer vision, visualization, and machine learning, with expertise in big data analysis. At GE Global Research, he led projects on vehicle and people detection, tracking across camera views, and object tracking using transfer learning. At WVU, he focuses on novel techniques for analyzing human behavior from video, as well as object classification using methods like sparse coding, deep learning, and kernel techniques. Gianfranco holds degrees in electric engineering and computer science from University of Padua and UCLA.
Jason Osborne
Chief Business Officer
Jason Osborne is an educator and explorer whose career spans neuroscience, education, paleontology, aerospace, and mechanical engineering. Recognized by media outlets such as National Geographic and Discovery Channel, he has dedicated his life to research, innovation, and public engagement in science. His contributions have earned him numerous accolades, including being named a White House Champion of Change by the Executive Office of The President for his efforts in advancing public literacy in science. Jason's work embodies a commitment to exploring new frontiers and inspiring others in the pursuit of knowledge.
Bernadette Barragan
Director of Education & Professional Learning
Bernadette is a dedicated former high school science teacher with expertise in project-based learning. She taught Biology, Environmental Science, Forensic Science, Anatomy & Physiology, and Neuroscience, while coaching the Academic Decathlon team and serving as department chair. A certified trainer for the New Tech Network and Apple Certified Teacher, Bernadette was named Teacher of the Year and Most Outstanding Science Teacher in 2019. She now serves on the United Way of Odessa Board, advocating for educational equity and STEM education.
Nathan Spencer
Chief Technology Officer
Nathan is a nearly ten-year veteran of VR application development, grounded by a belief that good craftsmanship in software is a feature that can be enjoyed by developers and end-users alike. His interest in collaborations between the computing and life sciences—including many with syGlass users—has led to his acknowledgement in publications including Cell and Genome Biology and Evolution. He holds degrees in computer science and computer engineering from West Virginia University.
The Story of syGlass
Founded with the support of an NIH Innovation Grant, syGlass originated from the neuroscience and computer vision labs at West Virginia University.
syGlass was initially developed to assist the university’s neuroscience researchers in addressing a significant challenge: visualizing complex and large datasets of neurons and their connections at various scales of resolution.
Our mission at syGlass is to break down barriers by providing a platform that empowers scientists, educators, and learners to explore, annotate, and communicate scientific data. syGlass delivers an unparalleled experience, bridging the gap between theory and practice, and fostering the growth of the scientists of the future.
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Today
Cofounders Meet
An NIH R21 grant at West Virginia University brings together syGlass’ three cofounders to work on advanced visualization techniques for neuroscience data.
VR Experiments Begin
The release of the Oculus Development Kit 1 inspires a pivot to develop a true VR solution for the issues faced by scientists working with massive image data.
“syGlass” is Born
As the software transitions from research interest to viable commercial product, the syGlass name and logo are used for the first time.
First Licenses in Science
The first syGlass licenses for scientific research are sold, marking the start of a deep network of relationships between the company and labs around the world.
First Classroom Prototype
A prototype for the application of syGlass software to the high school classroom is developed and trialed for the first time, as exploration into the world of education begins.
NIH SBIR Grant Awarded
syGlass is awarded an NIH SBIR Phase II grant via the BRAIN Initiative to streamline volumetric imaging, analysis, and publication using immersive VR.
Citizen Science Launches
syGlass is first used to enable remote collaboration between high school students and neuroscience researchers; a program now dubbed participatory science.
syGlass is Global
syGlass is now used in an array of research labs and classrooms spanning the globe, cited in more the 100 publications and reaching hundreds of students per year.