Thermo Fisher Scientific has launched the Thermo Scientific™ Glacios™ 3 Cryo-TEM, a next-generation cryogenic transmission electron microscope intended to help more laboratories access advanced structural biology tools.
The new instrument is designed to support researchers using cryogenic electron microscopy, a technique that flash-freezes biomolecules so they can be visualized in their native states. By combining 200 kV imaging and structural analysis with AI-powered software and a more flexible installation profile, the Glacios 3 Cryo-TEM is positioned to help labs expand their cryo-EM capabilities without some of the traditional site constraints.
What the Glacios 3 Cryo-TEM Means for Lab Managers
For lab managers overseeing instrumentation strategy, space planning, and workflow efficiency, the Glacios 3 Cryo-TEM offers a mix of performance and practical operational advantages.
- Broader installation potential through the Thermo Scientific™ READY™ System
- Improved ease-of-use for research teams adopting or expanding cryo-EM workflows
- Higher throughput and data quality through AI-powered software
- Expanded application support including single particle analysis, cryo-ET, and microED
Thermo Fisher says the integrated READY™ System helps mitigate vibrations and environmental disturbances, reducing renovation complexity and enabling installation in a wider variety of lab environments. The company also highlights design changes intended to improve productivity and sample transfer while reducing contamination risk.
“The Glacios 3 Cryo-TEM opens the door for more institutions and researchers to harness the capabilities of cryo-EM, helping them tackle complex biological questions and enhance therapeutic development,” said Steve Reyntjens, Thermo Fisher Scientific vice president and general manager of life sciences. “This combination of advanced instrumentation and AI-powered workflows represents a step change in how scientists generate insights, which will accelerate the development of life-improving treatments.”
Supporting Structural Biology and Drug Discovery Research
Cryo-EM continues to play an important role in structural biology and therapeutic development. Thermo Fisher notes that the technology has contributed to the development of RSV vaccines, GLP-1 therapies, and ongoing HIV vaccine research.
External feedback on the new platform points to potential facility and cost benefits as well.
“When first presented with news of the Glacios 3, I was delighted to learn of the latest developments on its platform,” said Dr. Steve Smerdon, a professor of structural biology in the University of Birmingham Department of Cancer and Genomic Sciences. “The improvements to the enclosure are particularly impressive, as they will allow greater flexibility in choosing a site for the instrument with potentially substantial reductions in refurbishment and running costs.”
For lab leaders balancing scientific capability with facility considerations, the Glacios 3 Cryo-TEM may offer a way to broaden access to advanced cryo-EM while supporting productivity and future growth.
