ZEISS Microscopy has joined forces with Concept Life Sciences (CLS), a UK-based contract research organization (CRO), to develop new approaches for workflow automation and scalable image analysis in spatial biology.
The partnership will focus on:
Automated high-throughput imaging: Leveraging the ZEISS Axioscan 7 spatial biology platform to streamline imaging workflows.
SlideStream integration: Enhancing imaging, image management, and seamless integration with laboratory information systems.
AI-driven image analysis: Applying Mindpeak software to deliver reproducible and scalable data outputs.
Assay development and validation: Supporting multiplex immunofluorescence (mIF) and immunohistochemistry (IHC) applications.
As spatial biology becomes increasingly important in translational research and clinical development, efficiency and reproducibility are critical—particularly for CROs supporting pharmaceutical and biotech companies.
“A key bottleneck in any spatial biology project is whole-slide tissue scanning, which can lead to unplanned reviews and repeat imaging, making it difficult to predict delivery timelines and associated costs. ZEISS is helping us to overcome this challenge with an efficient and reproducible automated workflow that truly benefits CROs offering this service. I’m proud to be working with our incredible spatial biology team – driven by a shared commitment to excellence and innovation – as we collaborate with ZEISS to advance scanning technology and deliver the very best for our customers,” said Dr. Hayley Gooding, Biology Services Director at Concept Life Sciences.
The collaboration is designed to help the biopharmaceutical industry and CROs generate reliable, high-quality evidence to accelerate decision-making in drug development and cancer research.
“By working with a CRO deeply involved in biomarker discovery and cancer research, we’re not just improving technical workflows, we’re advancing how data is translated into meaningful outcomes. Our aim is to support the industry in moving faster, with greater consistency, and ultimately bringing better therapies to patients," said Dr. Florian Leiss, Head of Product and Applications for Spatial Biology at ZEISS.
This partnership reflects a shared commitment to delivering practical, high-impact solutions for both research and clinical applications in spatial biology.