University of Twente and Labmicta Partner to Revolutionize Laboratory Diagnostics with AI and Robotics

University of Twente and Labmicta Partner to Revolutionize Laboratory Diagnostics with AI and Robotics

(IN BRIEF) The University of Twente and Labmicta have formed a strategic partnership to advance laboratory diagnostics through the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics. This collaboration aims to optimize diagnostic processes, reduce turnaround times, and improve patient care while driving innovation in healthcare. The partnership is set to have a positive impact on the regional economy, stimulate job creation, and position the University of Twente and Labmicta as leaders in technological innovation within the healthcare sector. Menzis, the largest health insurer in the Twente region, strongly supports this initiative.

(PRESS RELEASE) ENSCHEDE, 28-Apr-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — The University of Twente (UT) and medical microbiology laboratory Labmicta have formalized a groundbreaking partnership aimed at optimizing laboratory operations through the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics. The collaboration will focus on developing innovative solutions that enhance laboratory diagnostics, making them faster, more efficient, and environmentally sustainable, ultimately leading to improved patient care.

The agreement, which was officially ratified during a signing ceremony last week, will see the creation of a dedicated research project in which a PhD student will explore the potential of AI and robotics to transform laboratory workflows. This collaboration, which also supports regional economic development and innovation, brings together the expertise of both UT and Labmicta to push the boundaries of healthcare technology.

Driving Innovation in Healthcare

This collaboration targets improving laboratory processes through data-driven optimization and advanced algorithms for capacity planning. “By streamlining diagnostic processes, we can significantly reduce turnaround times, making results available more quickly and enhancing predictive capabilities,” explained Richard Boucherie of the Center for Healthcare Operations Improvement and Research (CHOIR). UT’s Technical Medical Centre Managing Director, Remke Burie, emphasized the importance of this partnership for healthcare innovation, noting that UT’s proficiency in operations research and AI will help ensure a more robust laboratory workflow. “Combining our academic strengths with Labmicta’s practical expertise allows us to create smarter, more efficient systems for laboratory diagnostics.”

Transforming the Future of Laboratory Management

Nashwan al Naiemi, Director of Labmicta, expressed excitement about the potential of technological advancements to revolutionize laboratory processes. “This partnership accelerates the transformation of laboratory management, enabling faster, more accurate diagnostics while also fostering knowledge development in the Twente region. With the University of Twente’s expertise in data-driven decision-making, we are laying the foundation for the future of laboratory management in an ever-evolving healthcare landscape.”

Addressing Societal and Regional Challenges

The collaboration is not only expected to impact the laboratory sector but also address broader societal challenges, including the pressure healthcare systems face due to workforce shortages. By incorporating AI and robotics, processes can be made more efficient, leading to quicker and more accurate diagnoses, thus improving patient care. Furthermore, the partnership will have a positive influence on the local economy, creating new opportunities for regional businesses and institutions, driving employment, and attracting talent to the area. Both UT (through its TechMed Centre) and Labmicta are positioning themselves as leaders in technological innovation, contributing to the development of sustainable and future-proof healthcare systems.

Support from Menzis

Coöperatie Menzis, the largest health insurer in the Twente region, has been an integral part of the partnership from the beginning and fully supports the initiative. “By joining forces, the University of Twente and Labmicta are accelerating innovations that will improve healthcare in our region,” said John de Kruiff, Manager of Healthcare for Twente at Menzis. “This collaboration is set to create innovative solutions that not only enhance laboratory efficiency and quality but also elevate the overall patient care experience. Through joint investment in technology and knowledge, we strengthen the region’s competitive edge and foster sustainable growth.”

Media Contact:

drs. M.M.J. van Hillegersberg – Hofmans (Martine)
Communications advisor TechMed Centre
+31534896949
m.vanhillegersberg@utwente.nl

SOURCE: University of Twente