Vin Emil, a Doctor, was among the first scientists from the University of Sanbra to work at the Q'Maere Research Facility, where he served as the station's xenobotanist. When Moff Kentor Sarne transformed the research center into a prison, he extended an offer to Emil to remain, which Emil accepted. While working there, he developed Variant Alpha, a cure for the unusual bacterial mutation discovered in the Kathol Rift.