Major European IT prize awarded to sophisticated CD-camera based system which can capture irregular protein patterns more effectively than photographic film
Syngene has been presented with a unique trophy and cheque by the European Information Society Technologies (IST) in recognition of the excellence of its GeneGnome scientific imaging system.
At a ceremony, which took place in December 2001 during the European IST conference in Dusseldorf, Syngene representatives collected a cheque for €5000 plus an unusual statue of a specially commissioned piece of original artwork by famous local artist, Anna Lobner.
The GeneGnome was the only product from a UK-based company to be picked by a Euro-Case nominated panel of IT experts, and it beat off stiff competition from 294 applicants in 26 countries to take the prize.
Syngene says it is leading the way in scientific imaging with the GeneGnome, because it is the first of a new breed of automated imaging system that is faster and more cost effective than using photographic film.
It uses a highly sensitive electronic CCD camera to capture images of often irregular and distorted protein patterns.
The GeneGnome's sophisticated software algorithms then analyse these images to provide both quantitative and qualitative information.
This and Syngene's other image analysers are allowing scientists world-wide to carry out life science research so vital to areas such as developing new drugs and preventing crop disease.
Paul Ellwood, Syngene's sales and marketing director said: "We are very proud to have the GeneGnome acknowledged as an outstanding system by IT experts from the prestigious IST.
To have been presented with such an imaginative trophy and monetary prize as well is an even greater honour."
