Leibniz Founders’ Prize for 2025 goes to DeepEn: revolution made in Jena

Jena-based start-up DeepEn GmbH won the 2025 Leibniz Founders’ Prize with the world’s thinnest microscope. The company, which was spun off from the Leibniz Institute of Photonic Technology (Leibniz IPHT), impressed the jury with a micro-holographic 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 – all minimally invasively and with unprecedented precision. The technology is based on leading international research in holographic light control and was developed in cooperation with top European institutes. DeepEn intends to use the 50,000 euro prize to prepare for the market launch of NeuroDeep® at the end of 2025. Plans include trade show appearances in Europe, Asia and the United States as well as a targeted marketing campaign. The company offers disposable endoscopy probes and related training in addition to the laboratory system. DeepEn is a prime example of the successful transfer of research into practice in Thuringia – with the potential to bring about lasting changes in medical diagnostics and therapy.