A Gift for Future Scientists: VU Laboratories Receive Cutting-Edge Equipment Worth Half a Million Euro

On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of biotechnology science in Lithuania, students at the Life Sciences Center of Vilnius University (VU) received a remarkable gift – "Thermo Fisher Scientific Baltics" donated modern research equipment and reagents worth €500,000. According to VU representatives, this investment extends beyond laboratories, as it is a commitment to fostering the next generation of scientists who will shape the future of scientific innovation.

VU Rector Prof. Rimvydas Petrauskas emphasised the impressive progress of Lithuania’s modern biotechnology sector over the past 50 years, stressing the importance of continuous investment in practical student training to maintain international competitiveness.

"This generous gift from ‘Thermo Fisher Scientific’ is extremely important for our students – it will allow them to gain hands-on experience with the latest technologies and research methods, acquire valuable skills, and better prepare for careers in the biotechnology industry. Achieving high results requires strong cooperation between science and business. Thus, we are delighted to have this opportunity to strive for excellence together," said Prof. Petrauskas.

At the event, Lukas Savickas, Minister of Economy and Innovation, underscored that cooperation between businesses, the academic community, and the state is crucial in ensuring the growth of the Lithuanian biotechnology sector. "Biotechnology is one of the fastest-growing high-value industries in Lithuania: w e have more than 50 biotechnology companies, many of which export to more than 100 countries worldwide, with the sector’s export value exceeding €2 billion. The government’s programme includes measures to accelerate investment in this field, which is an encouraging sign for the scientific community and the national economy."

Currently, over 1,000 students are studying at the VU Life Sciences Center, most of whom are set to benefit from the new laboratory equipment. ‘Thermo Fisher’ also supplies educational laboratories with reagents produced at its facilities in Vilnius, further enhancing student training.

According to Justas Plankis, CEO of "Thermo Fisher Scientific Baltics", this investment reflects the company’s strong commitment to supporting young scientists.

"High-quality studies are essential for competitiveness in Lithuania’s modern biotechnology sector. We are dedicated to long-term cooperation with Vilnius University because it is the young generation that will drive the world-changing innovations of the future," noted the CEO of "Thermo Fisher Scientific Baltics".

VU continuously modernises its laboratories to ensure students can learn and gain experience with cutting-edge technologies. The support from "Thermo Fisher Scientific Baltics" further reinforces the significance of academic-business partnerships in achieving global excellence.

The 50th anniversary of modern biotechnology in Lithuania celebrated on 24 March at the VU Life Sciences Center brought together pioneers of biotechnology, industry leaders, government representatives, and contemporary scientists shaping the future of this field. Participants had a unique opportunity to explore the Life Sciences Center laboratories, where the latest biotechnology innovations are developed.