In May 2025, an intensive week of seminars was held in collaboration with our supplier ibidi, providing our customers with exciting insights into current topics in cell research. At several locations in Switzerland, they had the opportunity to experience the latest applications in a practical setting and engage in direct discussions with experts. VITARIS was accompanied by Dajana Preuss, International Partner Manager at ibidi, who contributed significantly to the success of the event series with her professional expertise. In this article, we provide an insight into ibidi as a company, report on the events held, present an interview with Dajana Preuss and introduce the main topic for 2025: modern cell research and cell-based analysis methods.
Review
Together with ibidi we at VITARIS organized several specialist events that not only provided our customers with in-depth knowledge, but also offered practical insights into modern solutions for live cell imaging and cell biology applications. In a personal atmosphere and with plenty of room for exchange, experts from ibidi presented, among other things, the versatile μ-slides, microfluidic systems and innovative tools for analyzing cell migration - all directly applicable and tailored to the needs of everyday laboratory work.
We visited various locations - including universities in Basel, Bern and Zurich, as well as BIOS+ and the University Center for Dental Medicine Basel (UZB) - and other exciting company locations. The direct dialog between users, researchers and product specialists was particularly appreciated, making the event much more than just a product presentation.
Our common goal was to show not only the technical possibilities, but also concrete application solutions that make research more efficient, reproducible and user-friendly. The positive response from the participants
confirmed to us how valuable such
formats are for combining technical depth
with personal proximity.
Interview with Dajana Preuss
How did you experience the customer events together with VITARIS on site?
It was an interesting mix of selected customer visits and well-organized seminars. We were able to discuss the issues and requirements of the various customers as a team and provide impetus for new ideas. The organization was very good - from the reception to the support. Together we were able to create an atmosphere of trust in which open discussions with the customers were possible.
What makes ibidi so special and what is your USP?
We are characterized above all by close customer proximity and intensive application support. It is particularly important to us to focus on the needs of our customers - from the initial consultation to the concrete solution in everyday laboratory work. Our product developments are not only geared towards practical application, but also specifically to the individual requirements and needs of the user. We actively live the principle of exchange "from researcher to researcher": the exchange takes place at eye level and usually in personal discussions, which enables us to quickly identify and address specific challenges. This close connection to research makes us the first port of call for many when it comes to solutions in the field of cell imaging. Our innovative strength, coupled with technical excellence and a genuine interest in our customers' scientific issues, makes us a particularly reliable partner.
You have talked about applications. Which application will ibidi focus on in 2025?
In 2025, the clear focus of ibidi on the cell migration.
With innovative solutions for live cell imaging and precise migration assays, ibidi supports research projects worldwide that investigate cellular movements - a central topic in cancer, immune and developmental biology.
Let's get back to the events. What reactions or feedback from customers do you particularly remember?
We particularly remember the positive reactions to our live presentation of the µ-Slide products and ibidi Pump systems. Many customers were amazed at how intuitive the handling is and how well our solutions can be integrated into existing workflows. One response was: "Finally a system that makes cell culture under flow conditions so easy!" - This shows us that we offer real added value with our technology.
Were there any special moments or conversations that underlined the importance of personal customer contact?
Yes, absolutely. In particular, conversations at the lab doors or over coffee have shown us how important personal interaction is. One customer explained his challenges in his research work with cell cultures to us in detail - in a personal dialog, we were able to suggest suitable solutions directly, which would not have been possible in such depth in a purely online format.
What advantages do you see in being able to present your products directly on site?
In a personal meeting, I can put the respective products in the customer's hands. This gives a deeper impression of the design and the resulting possibilities.
Many usersheld our µ-Slides in their hands for the first time or saw the microscopy compatibility live. We can also answer spontaneous questions on site and immediately demonstrate how flexible and versatile our products are - this generates trust and enthusiasm.
In your opinion, what worked particularly well - and what would you like to develop further for future events?
The close coordination in the run-up was particularly good - the combination of VITARIS' customer access and our technical expertise was very effective. In the future, we would like to focus even more on interactive formats, e.g. hands-on demonstrations or short workshops. The use of demo materials directly in the customer laboratory could also be expanded.
What insights do you take away from these events for further cooperation with VITARIS?
The joint presence shows how valuable strategic partnerships are - VITARIS knows the market and we deliver the right solutions. We see great potential in establishing joint theme series or roadshows. Proximity to the customer, combined with technically sound advice, strengthens our position in the long term.
ibidi - Application focus 2025
This year ibidi is increasingly focusing on the topic of cell migration. The company offers a wide range of innovative products and technologies that have been specially developed for the study of cell migration.
Cell migration refers to the active movement of cells within a tissue or organism. This process is crucial for numerous biological processes such as embryonic development, wound healing, immune responses and the metastasis of cancer cells. The study of cell migration enables a deeper understanding of these processes and can contribute to the development of new therapeutic approaches.
ibidi has developed various products that enable researchers to analyze cell movements under controlled conditions:
µ-Slide Chemotaxis
This product enables the optical analysis of the movement of chemotactically active cells. There are variants for 2D and 3D environments, allowing both adherent and non-adherent cells to be analyzed.
µ-Slide ibiPore SiN
Developed in collaboration with SiMPore, this product allows the cultivation of cells on a porous glass membrane. It is particularly suitable for studies on the transmigration of leukocytes and for investigating cell interactions under flow conditions.
micro-Insert 3D
This membrane-free, microscopy-optimized solution with hydrogel technology provides an in vivo-like 3D environment for cell cultures. The product is ideal for migration and transport assays.
µ-Pattern Labware
The underlying technology uses defined adhesion spots to precisely control cell adhesion. This enables the investigation of cell behavior in precisely defined environments.
With these and other products ibidi supports researchers worldwide in the analysis of cell migration and thus contributes to progress in cell biology and medicine.
Conclusion
The series of seminars organized by VITARIS and ibidi offered in-depth insights into modern cell research with a focus on cell migration. Participants experienced practical applications and innovative solutions for everyday laboratory work in personal discussions. The consistently positive feedback shows that such formats create real added value and promote research that works.
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