2026 Spatial Transcriptomics Excellence Award
Spatial technology is advancing transcriptomic research. Will You Lead the Way?
Spatial transcriptomics is rapidly transforming how gene expression is studied within intact tissue architecture. To support researchers adopting this technology, BMKGENE is opening a new European spatial transcriptomics laboratory in Münster, Germany, where researchers will have the opportunity to participate on-site during key stages of their spatial experiments.
To celebrate the establishment of this new facility, BMKGENE is launching the 2026 Spatial Transcriptomics Excellence Award, through which we will provide 22 complimentary spatial transcriptomics service opportunities to outstanding research projects.
Through this initiative, we will support 22 spatial samples (capture areas) with complimentary spatial transcriptomics services, representing a total award value of €150,000. The program aims to help researchers generate high-resolution spatial gene expression datasets that can advance ongoing biological and translational studies.
What does BMKGENE provide for this award?
● End-to-End Service: Our experts handle the entire technical pipeline – from OCT block sectioning and RNA collection to library preparation and deep sequencing – at our specialized facility in Münster. We will accompany you through the entire journey. Read more about BMKGENE spatial transcriptomic service.
● Optional On-site Experimental Participation (New): Award recipients are welcome to visit the spatial lab in Germany to personally supervise the critical cryosectioning step for their samples. This option allows researchers to maintain direct oversight of critical sample-handling steps when desired. (Please note that travel and accommodation costs associated with visiting the Münster laboratory are not covered by BMKGENE.)
● Sub-cellular Spatial Resolution: Powered by the BMKMANU S3000 platform, our service delivers genome-wide gene expression data at a remarkable 3.5 µm resolution. The technology captures poly(A)-tailed transcripts directly from tissue sections, allowing researchers to resolve gene expression patterns within complex tissue structures.
● High sequencing coverage: Each capture area will be sequenced to approximately 100 Gb of paired-end 150 bp data using the Illumina NovaSeq X Plus platform, ensuring sufficient depth for comprehensive transcript detection and robust downstream analysis.
● Standard Bioinformatic Analysis: Selected projects may be highlighted through BMKGENE scientific webinars, workshops, and on-site events, providing opportunities for awardees to present their work to the broader research community.
What prizes can you win?
We are seeking innovative proposals from researchers working in clinical, animal, and plant research areas.
How to apply for the award? What is the award winning procedure?
1. Proposal Submission: Applicants should fill out the BMKGENE Spatial Award Proposal Template and email it to spatial.excellence.award@bmkgene.com.
2. Submission deadline: 8th May 2026, 23:59 CET.
3.Winner Selection: Proposals will be evaluated by BMKGENE scientific reviewers based on scientific novelty, feasibility, and suitability for spatial transcriptomic analysis. Awardees will be notified by 30 May 2026.
4. Expert Consultation: Awardees will be paired with a local account manager and a spatial expert to finalize experimental design and service details, to ensure the success of the spatial experiment.
5. Sample Submission: Once details are finalized, winners will submit their OCT blocks to our Münster lab between 1st – 31st July 2026.
6. Project Execution and Data Delivery: Our dedicated project managers will lead you through quality testing, sectioning, and data delivery, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish.
Who can participate?
This award is open to researchers in clinical, animal, and plant sciences in Europe. Due to logistical requirements, samples must be shipped from within Europe.