BD and Bruker to collaborate on microbiology research

BD is entering into a new partnership with Bruker Daltonics, which will combine their technological expertise to provide new means of microbial detection.

The international co-development and co-marketing agreement will see the companies integrate Bruker's Maldi Biotyper microbial ID system with BD's Phoenix microbiology device and EpiCenter microbiology data management equipment.

It is expected that the combination of these technologies will allow life scientists to quickly identify bacteria and fungi in a cost-effective and efficient way, as well as improving standards of antimicrobial susceptibility testing.

Jamie Condie, vice-president and general manager for infectious disease at the diagnostic systems division of BD Diagnostics, said: "This collaboration is ideal because the competencies of the two organisations will complement each other by providing excellent microbiology solutions for the customer."

According to BD's most recent financial report, published in August 2010, the company is enjoying a strong fiscal year so far, with earnings for the nine-month period ending on June 30th 2010 above those for the corresponding period last year.