Leibniz Founder Award 2025 for DeepEn: Revolution from Jena

With the world's thinnest microscope, the Jena-based start-up DeepEn GmbH has won the Leibniz Founder Award 2025. The spin-off from the Leibniz Institute of Photonic Technologies (Leibniz-IPHT) impressed with a microholographic endoscope that sets new standards in neuroscientific imaging. The device, NeuroDeep®, uses glass fibers with the diameter of a human hair to deliver high-resolution images from deep within the body – minimally invasive and with unprecedented precision. The technology is based on internationally leading research in holographic light control and was developed in cooperation with top European institutes. With the prize money of 50,000 euros, DeepEn aims to prepare the market launch of NeuroDeep® at the end of 2025. Plans include trade fair appearances in Europe, Asia, and the USA, as well as a targeted marketing campaign. In addition to the laboratory system, the company also offers disposable endoscopy probes and accompanying training. In Thuringia, DeepEn stands as an exemplary case of successful transfer from research to application – with the potential to sustainably change medical diagnostics and therapy.