The University of Szeged hosted an international workshop titled Cryo-Electron Microscopy Development at the University of Szeged on October 14–15, 2025, marking a major milestone in the launch of cryo-electron microscopy research in Hungary. During the two-day event, Rector Prof. Dr. László Rovó announced the creation of the National Cryo-Electron Microscopy Platform. The workshop highlighted the scientific significance of this advanced technology and offered a closer look at the pioneering national initiative led by the University.
At the Cryo-Electron Microscopy Development at the University of Szeged workshop, Rector Prof. Dr. László Rovó officially announced the establishment of the National Cryo-Electron Microscopy Platform – a collaborative initiative involving several Hungarian universities. He also introduced a new grant fund to support future research projects aligned with the application areas of cryo-electron microscopy.
The new cryo-electron microscope acqusition is being fully funded by the University of Szeged from its own resources. The instrument is expected to support cutting-edge measurements and research in life and materials sciences not only in Hungary, but across the wider region. Rector Rovó emphasized that the platform is likely to attract international research collaborations as well as commercial interest from the private sector. To help drive the initiative forward, the University has already signed a letter of intent with the Pasteur Institute, the World Health Organization (WHO), and several pharmaceutical companies.
Prof. Dr. László Rovó: The establishment of the National Cryo-Electron Microscopy Platform is underway.
Photo by Ádám Kovács-Jerney
Professor Dr. Zoltán Kónya, Vice-Rector for Science and Innovation at the University of Szeged and Scientific Director of the Center of Excellence for Interdisciplinary Research, Development, and Innovation (IKIKK), emphasized that cryo-electron microscopy (Cryo-EM) is transforming molecular-level research by allowing scientists to visualize biological samples, proteins, viruses, and other biomolecules in extraordinary detail. He added that the pioneers of the technique were awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2017, and since then, Cryo-EM has become one of the most powerful research tools in fields ranging from biochemistry and pharmaceutical science to medical diagnostics, materials science, and nanotechnology.
The planned Cryo-Electron Microscopy Center at the University of Szeged will house four high-performance instruments: two cryo-electron microscopes, a transmission electron microscope (TEM), and a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The underlying technology enables biological samples to be rapidly frozen in a way that preserves their internal structures. Unlike conventional freezing methods, which create damaging ice crystals, cryogenic techniques form non-crystalline, or vitreous, ice – allowing samples to be examined in a natural, life-like state.
According to Prof. Dr. Zoltán Kónya, “The center aims to serve as a cutting-edge national research infrastructure, offering 24/7 access to both Hungarian and international researchers. The facility will be established on the University’s Southern Clinical Campus (Déli Klinikapark) through the renovation of an existing complex. The project imposes exceptionally high technical requirements in the areas of air handling, humidity regulation, temperature stability, and vibration isolation – all of which are essential conditions for high-resolution microscopy measurements.”
Dr. Judit Fendler: The Cryo-Electron Microscopy Center will be a unique research facility in the region.
Photo by Ádám Kovács-Jerney
In her opening remarks, Dr. Judit Fendler, Chancellor of the University of Szeged, emphasized that the acquisition of the cryo-electron microscope represents a significant leap forward in the development of the university’s research infrastructure. This type of instrument is currently unavailable elsewhere in Hungary and remains rare even across Eastern Europe, so the facility now stands as the most advanced of its kind in the region.
Prof. Dr. Ildikó Csóka, Director General for Strategic Planning at the University of Szeged and Operational Director at the University’s Center of Excellence for Interdisciplinary Research, Development, and Innovation, presented the key research infrastructures concentrated within the center. She noted that commissioning the new cryo-electron microscope is fully in line with the University of Szeged’s strategic development plans. In recent years, this strategy has led to the creation of several specialized research centers and the acquisition of high-value scientific infrastructure – including the SZTE Biobank and an in-house supercomputer optimized for artificial intelligence applications.
László Bódis, Deputy State Secretary for Innovation, stated:
“The Cryo-Electron Microscopy Center is expected to receive state support as a designated national priority infrastructure.”
Photo by Ádám Kovács-Jerney
At the event, László Bódis, Deputy State Secretary for Innovation, praised the University of Szeged for its transformation into a renewed and dynamically developing institution – and for its ability to build a cutting-edge portfolio of scientific infrastructure using its own resources. He emphasized that the government is launching a series of measures to further strengthen the national research ecosystem. As part of the National Research Excellence Program, the OTKA grant system is undergoing significant updates. Proposals have also been prepared to replace the expiring national laboratory programs with new, mission-driven funding schemes. In addition, reforms to doctoral education aim to involve more PhD candidates directly in research.
László Bódis also announced the launch of a HUF 26 billion grant call aimed at supporting the comprehensive development of Hungarian research infrastructures. He noted that the University of Szeged’s new Cryo-Electron Microscopy Center – recognized as a designated national priority – is among the facilities expected to receive state funding.
The detailed program and list of speakers for the workshop are available on the official Cryo-Electron Microscopy Workshop website.
Original Hungarian article by Anna Bobkó, Sándor Panek
Feature photo: Prof. Dr. Zoltán Kónya, Vice-Rector, Scientific Director of the Center of Excellence for Interdisciplinary Research, Development, and Innovation, and initiator of the cryo-electron microscopy investment project
Photo by Ádám Kovács-Jerney
