The EpiCentre announces a major enhancement to its laboratory offering with the introduction of two advanced pieces of scientific equipment: a fluorescent microscope and a quantitative PCR (qPCR) machine. The investment has been made possible through grant support from West Suffolk Council via the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
The addition marks a significant milestone in The EpiCentre’s ongoing mission to provide science-led businesses with the infrastructure, environment and support they need to grow and succeed.
The newly installed qPCR machine brings powerful molecular analysis directly on-site, enabling researchers to measure DNA and RNA levels in real time. This technology supports a wide range of applications, including gene expression analysis, assay validation and pathogen detection – providing fast, sensitive and highly reproducible data. On-site access allows resident companies to accelerate research timelines, refine experimental design and maintain greater control over their workflows.
Complementing this capability is a high-performance fluorescent microscope, significantly enhancing imaging capacity within The EpiCentre. Using targeted fluorescent probes, scientists can visualise cellular structures and molecular interactions with exceptional precision. This supports advanced work in cell biology, microbiology and exploratory research, while also enabling routine fluorescence assays at a professional standard.
Regional innovation hubs like The EpiCentre play a vital but often understated role in the life sciences ecosystem. By delivering high-quality, shared laboratory infrastructure outside major metropolitan areas, they enable early-stage and scaling companies to access cutting-edge capabilities without the financial burden of major capital investment.
“These new additions represent a major step forward for our laboratory offering,” said Helen Earl, Centre Manager at The EpiCentre. “Our mission has always been to give science-led businesses the environment and tools they need to thrive. By investing in advanced, shared equipment like qPCR and fluorescence imaging, we’re removing barriers to high-quality research and enabling companies to move faster, make better decisions and keep more of their work in-house.
“Together, the new instruments strengthen The EpiCentre’s position as a well-equipped and accessible base for biotech and life science businesses. They also reinforce the importance of shared infrastructure in fostering innovation, collaboration and sustainable growth across the sector,” adds Earl.
West Suffolk Council granted £25,000 from their allocation of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) to support the investment. The Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills.
Cllr Indy Wijenayaka, Cabinet Member for Growth at West Suffolk Council, said: “This investment reflects West Suffolk Council’s continued commitment to supporting local innovation, skills development and economic growth. By funding specialist equipment within shared facilities, the council is helping to build long-term value for the regional scientific community. We are proud to support The EpiCentre in enhancing its laboratory capabilities, ensuring that science-led businesses across West Suffolk have access to the advanced tools and infrastructure they need to grow, innovate and succeed.”
As the life sciences sector continues to evolve, demand for flexible, well-supported laboratory environments is growing. With expanded equipment, expert on-site support and a collaborative ecosystem, The EpiCentre is well positioned to support the next generation of scientific innovation.
Pictured left to right: Helen Earl, Centre Manager, The EpiCentre and Cllr Indy Wijenayaka, Cabinet Member for Growth at West Suffolk Council.
Image credit: Annie Richardson.
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