Pictured above: Associate Prof in Neuroscience Mario Valentino with University Rector Prof Juanito Camilleri, Evolve Ltd Directors Ms Gaby Holland, Hugh Arrigo and Managing Director Christopher Busuttil

Evolve Ltd, a subsidiary of Attard & Co, has donated three more pieces of instruments worth €90,000 to the University of Malta through the University Research Trust (RIDT). This equipment will enhance and facilitate the academic programmes and research studies at the Faculty of Science and the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery.  The equipment consists of a Leica M620 F20 surgical microscope, a Gas Chromatograph and a Polarimeter.

Evolve Ltd has already established a relationship with the University of Malta, having provided three other pieces of equipment in 2012 to the value of €70,500 to the Department of Chemistry through RIDT.

University of Malta Rector Professor Juanito Camilleri thanked Evolve Ltd for their generous contribution. He said: “We are very appreciative of the donation made by Evolve Ltd. This equipment provides us with the opportunity to further improve on our teaching and research work conducted in the Department of Physiology and Biochemistry and in the Department of Chemistry.”

Evolve Managing Director Mr Christopher Busuttil said: “As a key player in the scientific and healthcare industries, we are committed to delivering value and assist people in their pursuit of excellence. Our donation affirms our commitment to support the University’s faculties of science in their research work and teaching programmes as well as assist young researchers in their careers.”

The new Leica M620 F20 surgical microscope, with its high technical specifications, will be of considerable use in the Department of Physiology and Biochemistry for both teaching and research purposes.  It is an advanced piece of equipment and a significant upgrade to the old surgical microscope currently being used in the surgical suite annex to the neuro-imaging facility.

Both the Gas Chromatograph and the Polarimeter will be used by the Department of Chemistry within the Faculty of Science.

“It is very encouraging to partner with companies like Evolve who believe in our cause. Gifts of equipment such as these enable students to have access to tools currently in use in industry. This is paramount to the University’s skills to be on the cutting edge.  It is hoped that support from industry to the University’s Research Trust will grow to be able to nurture more talented scientists and researchers,” said Wilfred Kenely, RIDT’s CEO

RIDT was established by the University of Malta to strengthen investment in research and development on a national level. Further information on RIDT can be obtained from www.ridt.org.mt