About us

Optalert is a pioneering medtech company leading the drowsiness and impairment detection industry for over 20 years.

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Optalert developed the world’s preeminent algorithm for objectively quantifying deterioration in cognitive function – the Johns Drowsiness Scale™ (JDS). It remains the only scientifically proven, objective measure of drowsiness and impairment. The firm holds multiple patents on its proprietary biomarker that Harvard Medical School has deemed “commensurate with gold standard laboratory measures”.

Innovator in passive OSA screening

The company also discovered the first non-invasive method to screen for obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) while the test subject is awake. It is also making progress in early screening of Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and other neurodegenerative conditions. Detection of these far in advance of visible symptoms will add years or even decades of well-being to millions of people in the future.

All in the blink of an eye

All of Optalert’s technologies are based on blepharometry. This term was introduced by founder Dr. Murray Johns to define the unique study of measuring eyelid movement, captured through a sensor or camera. Eyelid movements require precise coordination between two areas of the brain. They are a window into a person’s underlying neurological state.

Many products, many sectors

Optalert is active in a range of sectors with a diverse suite of products. In the mining and transport sector it offers a comprehensive fleet management solution to monitor and manage risk from drowsiness. It licenses its drowsiness algorithm to automakers for integration in their driver monitoring systems. It is also in the process of commercialising its breakthroughs in early screening of neurological and health conditions.

Helping millions live healthier lives

Optalert’s mission is to give everyone access to a comprehensive set of health information that is low-cost, frequent, and non-invasive. This helps millions of people live longer, healthier lives – all in the blink of an eye.

Our people

Board of Directors

Dr. Murray Johns

BSc MB BS PhD
Founder & Non-executive Director
World authority on sleep medicine, pioneered clinical practice and research, creator of Epworth Sleepiness Scale.

Brian Wilson

BSc
Non-executive Chair
30-year career in global management consulting, board member of Accenture (NYSE:CAN) for 15 years.

Prof. Matthew Kiernan

AM MBBS (Hons) PhD DSc FRACP FAHRMS
Non-executive Director
Co-director of the Brain and Mind Centre, President of the Brain Foundation, and world-renowned neurologist.

Christine Cussen

MBA
Non-executive Director
Decades of CEO and management experience in pharma, biotech, industrial, utilities, and innovation sectors globally.

Ian F. Rodwell

AO
Non-executive Director
Experienced company director, founder of marketing and communications group Adcorp Australia.

Management Team

Scott Coles

Chief Executive Officer
Australian tech pioneer, established Bell Labs in the 1990s, expert in strategy, tech commercialisation, and leadership.

Simon Block

Chief Technology Officer
30 years of experience in technology companies in signal intelligence, telecommunications, and cellular technologies.

Trefor Morgan

General Manager, R&D
Product innovation leader with 20 years of experience in R&D in telecommunications and software development.

James Gorry

Executive VP, Global Sales
Since 2013, James has been leading the global sales team in direct, channel, and IP licensing sales.
Optalert CMO Paul Zubrinich

Paul Zubrinich

Chief Marketing Officer
Marketing leader with 13 years of experience consulting to major brands on digital, data, and marketing strategies.

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Renowned as experts in drowsiness and impairment detection, Optalert is now exploring new pathways in the automotive industry, pharmaceutical drug trials and neurological research.

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