Sample preparation remains one of cryo-EM’s greatest sources of variability
Cryo-EM is transforming structural biology, but sample preparation remains one of the most variable and limiting steps in the workflow.Ice thickness, sample loss, preferred orientation, contamination, timing, transfer conditions, and operator variation can determine whether a sample produces useful data before acquisition begins.
The Cryo-EM Sample Preparation Platform is being developed around the complete path from preparation through microscope feedback—not freezing as an isolated step.
Prepare. Freeze. Transfer. Screen. Improve.
Designed for advanced workflows
Single-particle cryo-EM
Time Resolved Cryo-EM
High-throughput cryo-EM
Cryo-electron tomography
Automated sample preparation
A connected foundation for repeatable cryo-EM
The Cryo-EM Sample Preparation Platform is being developed to connect preparation hardware, cryogenic handling, microscope feedback, and future automation.
A new architecture for cryogenic sample preparation
The platform is being developed around:
- Ultrafast vitrification
- Controlled sample handling
- Cryogenic workstations
- Cryo-holder transfer workflows
- Microscope screening and feedback
- Future automation and data capture
Developed through microscope feedback
Hummingbird’s internal Cryo-EM Lab supports preparation, freezing, handling, transfer, and TEM screening. Results can be traced back to preparation conditions, contamination, transfer, holder behavior, or user handling and used to refine the next prototype.
Designed for future cryo-EM platforms
The platform is being developed for OEM integration, co-development, licensing, private-label deployment, and connection with existing cryo-EM instrumentation and automation environments.