What started as an exciting opportunity to access live-cell microscopy unexpectedly evolved into a full research project, ultimately culminating in a publication. When we received the news of our victory, we were thrilled to finally have the opportunity to perform live-cell imaging. Thanks to the excellent organization and support from Michael and the entire Cenibra team, the setup process was seamless. They handled every detail, from ensuring the correct environmental conditions for live-cell microscopy to managing all logistical aspects within our laboratories.

Our initial goal was to use the CQ1 confocal microscope in combination with our Hepatitis E virus (HEV) cell culture system to monitor real-time cellular responses during viral infection. However, as often happens in science, our first experiments did not work out. The HEV-infected cells showed little to no activation. Out of curiosity, we extended our tests to examine how cells responded to infection with a common cold coronavirus, and this time we observed a striking cellular response. This serendipitous observation became the foundation for a new line of research that ultimately resulted in a published study, something we never anticipated when entering the contest (https://www.nature.com/articles/s44298-025-00152-7).

Throughout the project, Michael’s continuous support was invaluable. He ensured that we had everything required for the experiments, provided expert guidance on operating the CQ1, and was always available to answer questions. Even after the experimental phase concluded, he returned to assist us with data evaluation, demonstrating an exceptional level of dedication.

This experience was remarkable in every respect, combining the technical excellence of the CQ1 confocal microscope with the outstanding support of the Cenibra team.

I strongly encourage young scientists to participate in the LAC Young Scientist Imaging Assay Jumpstarter Contest. Just as it did for us, it may inspire unexpected insights and open new directions for discovery. A sincere thank you to Michael and the Cenibra team for their exceptional support and for providing such an outstanding opportunity.

This experience has been nothing short of remarkable, thanks to the technical brilliance of the CQ1 and the unparalleled support from the entire Cenibra team. Their dedication has not only advanced our research but has also set a new standard for support and collaboration.

I highly recommend the CQ1 for anyone facing imaging challenges in biological systems and encourage participation in the LAC Young Scientist Imaging Assay Jumpstarter Contest. A heartfelt thank you to Michael, Thomas, and the Cenibra team for this outstanding opportunity and support. We look forward to our continued collaboration and the publication of our research findings.

Editor's Note: Read the full testimonial on our Blog!

At the beginning of this year, we were selected as winners of the LAC Young Scientist Imaging Assay Jumpstarter Contest, organized by Cenibra. We were thrilled to win the opportunity to use their high-end CQ1 imaging cytometer for four weeks.

We heard about the Jumpstarter Contest through an email sent out by Cenibra. To participate in the contest, we submitted a proposal to investigate intracellular human pathogenic bacteria and, after a couple of weeks, were contacted by Michael Schell. He assisted us in planning the project, discussing details like cell types, dyes, treatment conditions, and chamber slide formats. During the four-week period, we received a comprehensive introduction to the device and software, ending in a well-guided analysis of our data.

The CQ1's compact design, with its integrated dark chamber and climate control, was particularly interesting for us. It enabled us to observe fast processes in multiple colors, which was a significant advantage for our project. We found it incredibly useful for testing and partially validating our ideas, even though the project was still in its early stages and not a full study.

We can only recommend participating in the Jumpstarter Contest. It’s a great opportunity to get hands-on experience with a new device, and the support provided by the Cenibra team was exceptional throughout the process.

Last year, I was looking for a suitable microscopy system that would allow me to observe bacteria live while infecting a cell culture. During my research and through contact with other working groups, I became aware of the CQ1 from Yokogawa. Unfortunately, the purchase of such a device was not possible for financial reasons.

A few months later, Mr Schell contacted me to draw my attention to the upcoming imaging contest, in which the first 3 places would receive the device on loan for a certain period of time. Registration was easy and didn't take much time.
After I unexpectedly came second in the imaging contest, I was actually allowed to test the CQ1 for a fortnight. Both the planning and the course of the two weeks with the CQ1 exceeded my expectations. Mr Schell personally installed the CQ1 in my institute and competently instructed me on how to use the device so that I was able to run my experiments independently on the second day. If there were any uncertainties or minor problems, Mr Schell was always available and was able to help quickly.
Thanks to the contest and the good support, I not only had the opportunity to test the CQ1, but also to carry out a large number of experiments, which will probably be a crucial part of my doctoral thesis.