Prior Scientific has manufactured precision optical and electromechanical equipment and instrumentation for over 100 years.

As the leader in the development of systems for precision motion control and microscope automation, we work closely with our partners and customers to develop customized optical and automation systems as well as providing a wide range of standard microscopy components.

We partner with system integrators and OEMs to develop prototypes, custom-built products, and complete imaging system solutions according to individual customer requirements for a variety of applications. Our integrated design and manufacturing facilities enable us to seamlessly transition from concepts to production systems.  Typical applications for our products are found in photonics, life science research, material science, nanotechnology, medical devices, metrology, and semiconductor manufacturing.

We design, develop, and manufacture products in our facilities in the UK and USA, which are both ISO 9001:2015 certified. Our UK manufacturing locations are also certified to ISO 14001:2015 (Environment)  and ISO 45001:2018 (Health & Safety). Regional offices in Germany, Japan, and China provide additional worldwide support.

Our key product lines include:

• Microscope automation equipment including high-precision motorized microscope stages
• Fully motorized OpenStand imaging platform
• Automated slide and well plate loaders
• Piezo nanopositioning systems
• Motorized objective and filter cube changers and filter wheels
• Laser autofocus systems
• Custom and OEM electromechanical and optical systems

Our mission

We understand that every problem requires a unique approach. Our team works closely with customers and partners to identify their specific needs and design a cost-effective and tailored solution that meets their unique requirements. We continue to push scientific boundaries and constantly build on and improve our expertise in automated precision optical and mechanical systems.