Spin-out improves scientific imaging

A new spin-out firm from Oxford University is developing high performance scientific imaging detectors capable of studying structures and processes at the atomic level.

The company, Oxford Imaging Detectors, has been set up by the University’s technology transfer company Isis Innovation.

Initially focused for use in electron microscopy, the detectors were developed by the research group lead by Professor Angus Kirkland at the Department of Materials. They provide significant advantages over current technology, exceeding the current state of the art in speed, contrast, efficiency and resolution.

Professor Kirkland explained: ‘These detectors coupled to state of the art imaging instruments are one of the most powerful tools in a scientist’s toolkit. Materials scientists, chemists, biologists and physicists increasingly need to examine objects at the atomic level. The Oxford Imaging Detectors’ products will support critical research in diverse areas spanning automotive catalysis, molecular medicine and new engineering nanomaterials.’

Grigore Moldovan, who joins Oxford Imaging Detectors as Research Director from Professor Kirkland’s group, said: ‘These detectors combine the latest developments in particle sensing with novel semiconductor design and technology to provide the best imaging performance. Key features include single-electron detection, simultaneous imaging of multiple independent regions of interest, and radiation hardness.’

Oxford Imaging Detectors CEO Geoff Foote said: ‘The market for new high performance detectors is growing as research into nano-scale technologies and materials becomes increasingly important. Oxford Imaging Detectors will provide state of the art sensors to enhance the capabilities of existing instruments, and extend the possibilities for future developments. We believe that this will have a profound impact on the emergence of new research areas, benefiting both existing and emerging industries.’

‘Isis has been working with Professor Kirkland and his research group to protect this valuable intellectual property which has real utility for the scientific research community, and to create the route to market. We believe Oxford Imaging Detectors provides a very strong business team to take the technology to the next stage.’ said Mr Tom Hockaday, Managing Director of Isis Innovation.

Oxford Imaging Detectors’ instruments also have potential applications in a number of other areas, including X-ray, other microscopy techniques, and machine vision.

Oxford Imaging Detectors will be initially be funded by an equity investment from a corporate investor alongside a sponsored research and development contract.