About Us
Pioneering the future of scientific instrumentation through innovative AI-powered solutions and cutting-edge research.
From Idea to Impact
At IRIS, we bridge the gap between cutting-edge research and practical applications. Our team of scientists, engineers, and developers work collaboratively to transform complex theoretical concepts into real-world solutions. From AI-powered microscopy to advanced instrumentation design, we're committed to pushing the boundaries of what's possible in scientific technology.
Expertise You Can Trust
With decades of combined experience in machine learning, computer vision, mass spectrometry, and optical systems, our team brings deep technical expertise to every project. We've published extensively in peer-reviewed journals, hold multiple patents, and maintain strong connections with leading academic institutions. This foundation of knowledge enables us to tackle the most challenging problems in scientific instrumentation and automation.
What Drives Us
Our Core Values
- Pushing the boundaries of what's possible through innovative technology
- Bridging the gap between cutting-edge research and practical applications
- Empowering the next generation through mentorship and education
- Creating solutions that amplify human capability rather than replace it
- Building lasting partnerships with clients, universities, and the community
Our Focus
Innovation Through Collaboration
We believe the most powerful solutions emerge when human expertise combines with advanced technology.
Education & Mentorship
Growing the next generation of innovators through hands-on experience and real-world problem solving.
Practical Impact
Transforming theoretical breakthroughs into tools that solve real problems and improve lives.
Community Connection
Building strong roots in Boone while maintaining global partnerships and perspectives.
Our Team
Dr. Zachary Russell
Founder, CEO and Director of R&D
Research specializing in novel scientific instrument design and research development efforts utilizing machine learning, computer vision, compressive sensing, smart automation, and advanced data analytics. Specifically focusing on the application of these techniques to widely used micro-analytical tools. Highly involved in professional service and passionate about science communication and education.
Dr. Mathieu Therezien
Founding Member, Lead Developer
Chemical engineer specialized in mathematical modeling (aggregation and transport phenomena in complex aquatic environments, light diffusion through conifer canopies). Focus on computer vision, compressive sensing, and machine learning.
Dr. Chris Thaxton
Industry-Academic Liaison
Electrical engineer and professor of physics with 10 years of industry experience and workforce development. Research specializations include boundary-layer modeling, granular systems, and instrumentation. Current focus is on student internships, academic policy and program management for entrepreneurial endeavors, and industry/agency partnership development.
Dr. Kevin Sparks
Entrepreneur in Residence
Retired Director of Advanced Technology from Corning Incorporated, where he spent 19 years leading optical communications development from Hickory, North Carolina. He holds multiple U.S. patents in optical fiber technology, including innovations in UV tuning methods for Mach-Zehnder interferometers, microstructured optical fibers with low bend loss, and optical monitoring systems.
Dr. Michael Paolino
Research Scientist
I am a North Carolina native who loves music, books, theater, bowling, and being outside. I received my undergraduate degrees in Physics and Chemistry, as well as a masters in Engineering Physics from Appalachian State University in Boone, NC. I received my PhD in physics from the University of Colorado in June of 2025, by studying water oxidation catalysis using time-resolved optical spectroscopy and stimulated Raman spectroscopy. I have several years of experience in optics laboratories working in microscopy, optical trapping, fluorescence anisotropy, and various flavors of spectroscopy. I love problem solving and working with both my mind and my hands. I began working at IRIS-Inc in August of 2025 as a research scientist, and hope to be here for many years to come!
Jose Salazar
Senior Software Developer
Senior Full Stack Software Developer with a passion for building scalable and efficient systems. Specializes in TypeScript/React, and React Native.
Current Interns
Bek Rachal
App State Physics Bachelor's Student
Interned with Ion Innovations during the summer of 2024 working on electrical engineering, and advanced circuitry.
Hunter Corman
App State Systems and Automations Master's Student
Interned with Ion Innovations during the summer of 2024 working on automation, 3D printing, and modeling.
Lily Pratt
App State Physics Bachelor's Student
Interned with Ion Innovations during the summer of 2024 working on electrical engineering, and advanced circuitry.
Ethan Humphries
App State Physics Bachelor's Student
Interned with Ion Innovations during the summer of 2024 working on vacuum systems.
Eli Niederman
App State Physics Bachelor's Student
Interned with Ion Innovations during the summer of 2024 working on electrical engineering, and advanced circuitry.
Ian Orrell
App State Physics Bachelor's Student
Interned with Ion Innovations during the summer of 2024 working on electrical engineering, and advanced circuitry.
Ian Wharton
App State Physics Bachelor's Student
Interned with Ion Innovations during the summer of 2024 working on electrical engineering, and advanced circuitry.
Maggie Stevens
App State Physics Bachelor's Student
Interned with Ion Innovations during the summer of 2024 working on electrical engineering, and advanced circuitry.
Will Allport
App State Physics Bachelor's Student
Interned with Ion Innovations during the summer of 2024 working on electrical engineering, and advanced circuitry.
Shaun Go
App State Physics Bachelor's Student
Interned with Ion Innovations during the summer of 2024 working on electrical engineering, and advanced circuitry.
Kaden Rogers
App State Physics Bachelor's Student
Interned with Ion Innovations during the summer of 2024 working on electrical engineering, and advanced circuitry.
Contact
Address
482 State Farm Road
Boone, NC 28607
Suite C
Get In Touch
Ready to discuss your next project or learn more about our innovative solutions? Contact us today to see how Ion Innovations can help transform your technologies.