Wetzlar, Germany -- The new Centre of Excellence will be hosted by the world-class Micron Bioimaging Facility within the Department of Biochemistry at The University of Oxford and will feature cutting-edge imaging solutions from Leica microsystems, such as the STELLARIS 5 Confocal Microscope Platform and Mica Microhub/

In pursuit of a joint mission to advance scientific research and promote state-of-the-art microscopy techniques, this new partnership brings together the expertise of Leica Microsystems, known for its precision microscopy and imaging instruments, with the academic excellence of one of the world's leading universities.

Integral to the Centre's mission is the advancement of learning by establishing a collaborative culture of training and nurturing a network of future talent. It will provide a place for experts from across the scientific community to come together and share knowledge through workshops and seminars. Furthermore, immersive training sessions will help scientists harness the latest microscopy and imaging technologies, such as super resolution live cell imaging with the STELLARIS STED Microscope or correlations between cryo EM and microscopy using Cryo CLEM.

“We are excited to partner with the University of Oxford's Department of Biochemistry to establish this Centre of Excellence” says Darin Stell, Senior VP Global Commercial Operations at Leica Microsystems.

“By combining our technological expertise with the academic strength of Oxford, we aim to accelerate scientific discoveries and inspire the next generation of scientists”. Throughout its nearly 175-year history, Leica Microsystems has prided itself on partnerships with some of the world’s leading research institutions. Darin says, “This new collaboration with the prestigious University of Oxford is part of our strong commitment to the UK scientific community, helping scientists to stay at the forefront of cutting-edge global research”.

To celebrate the start of the collaboration, an inauguration day was held at Micron Oxford on September 22, 2023, attended by representatives from The University of Oxford and Leica Microsystems. The event featured scientific talks from renowned researchers as well as microscopy showcases that provided the chance to get hands-on with the latest innovations.

About Leica Microsystems

Leica Microsystems develops and manufactures microscopes and scientific instruments for the analysis of microstructures and nanostructures. Ever since the company started as a family business in the nineteenth century, its instruments have been widely recognized for their optical precision and innovative technology. It is one of the market leaders in compound and stereo microscopy, digital microscopy, confocal laser scanning microscopy with related imaging systems, electron microscopy sample preparation, and surgical microscopes.

Leica Microsystems has six major plants and product development sites around the world. The company is represented in over 100 countries, has sales and service organizations in 20 countries, and an international network of distribution partners. Its headquarters are located in Wetzlar, Germany.

About The University of Oxford's Department of Biochemistry & Micron Oxford

The Department of Biochemistry at the University of Oxford is dedicated to understanding biological processes at the molecular level and how these drive cellular and organismal organisation and behaviour. The department fosters both basic science and its application to medicine. Its researchers apply their expertise to biological systems ranging from microbes, through animal cells, tissues, and whole organisms. The department also provides shared access to state-of-the-art infrastructure and cutting-edge technologies to facilitate their world-class research and develops new technologies necessary to achieve its research goals. Find out more.

The Micron Bioimaging Facility's core mission is to enable access to state-of-the-art optical microscopy systems for routine and advanced (sub)cellular imaging to national and international researchers. They endeavour to provide a first-class education to students and professionals and deliver excellence in bioimaging, helping scientists push the frontiers of human understanding of the inner workings of cells and tissues. Find out more.