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25 Years of Research with Whitley Workstations
We’re proud to share how Whitley Workstations continue to play a central role in groundbreaking microbiology research across the UK. One of the institutions we have worked closely with for over two decades is the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM).
We spoke with Dr Ozan Gundogdu, Associate Professor at LSHTM, about how Whitley Workstations have supported their research journey.
A Longstanding Partnership
LSHTM has been working with Don Whitley Scientific (DWS) since 1999 – marking 25 years of continuous workstation use and service support. Starting with our original variable atmosphere cabinets in the 1990s, LSHTM has consistently chosen Whitley Workstations and maintained service contracts throughout, ensuring the long-term performance and reliability of their equipment.
This summer, DWS installed two new cabinets at the school, replacing the teams existing Whitley Workstations that have been running reliably for over two decades. These models are equipped with a range of advanced features including data logging with oxygen profiling, an automatic sleeve gassing system, side entry letterbox with multiple cable ports, a vacuum take-off port, and humidification system to maintain optimum conditions for campylobacter growth. Together, these features provide the stability and flexibility needed for complex microbiological experiments.
Research Focus: Campylobacter
At LSHTM, Whitley Workstations are used primarily to culture Campylobacter, a microaerophilic bacterium recognised as one of the leading global causes of diarrhoeal disease. Campylobacter is also the most common bacterial cause of human gastroenteritis worldwide.
Dr Gundogdu explained:
“Without this equipment, we would have to rely on gas jars which limit our experiments. The microaerobic cabinets give us huge flexibility and have led to us studying the physiology and pathogenesis of the bacterium for over two decades. With this fundamental information, we can devise intervention and control strategies.”
Features That Make a Difference
When asked which aspects of the workstation he finds most valuable, Dr Gundogdu highlighted the reliability of the conditions required for bacterial growth, the ability to adjust temperature with ease, and the convenient side access for depositing plates. Together, these features create a controlled environment that accelerates progress and improves experimental outcomes.
Built on Relationships
Beyond the technology, the LSHTM team values the people behind the products:
“The reason we have been with Don Whitley Scientific for so long is the relationships we have built with the staff. They are incredibly helpful and knowledgeable. These relationships allow us to discuss technical challenges in relation to experiments and further our research.”
Looking Ahead
With their new Workstations now in action, LSHTM continues to explore the frontiers of microbiology with confidence and precision. We’re proud to support their work and look forward to seeing the discoveries this next chapter will bring.
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