New partnership to support under-represented scientists. * October 05, 2026 New England Biolabs (NEB) UK and the Microbiology Society have announced a new partnership to widen access to microbiology for under-represented communities. NEB has committed additional funding to the Microbiology Society's grants programme, sponsoring two Vacation Studentship Grants and one Outreach and Engagement Grant aimed specifically at Black students and Society members. The commitment reflects NEB's belief that meaningful progress on equity in science requires sustained investment. NEB is committed to its role in advancing equity within the company, the life sciences industry, and the broader community. This commitment is delivered through initiatives that support STEM education, scientific mentorship, and outreach, helping to create more pathways into science for those who may not otherwise have access to them. This partnership builds on NEB's wider commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, including the Passion in Science Awards, STEM outreach programmes, and local initiatives led by NEB UK that support students and young people considering careers in science. Davin Miller, General Manager of NEB UK commented: "Talent in science is everywhere, but opportunity is not; and we are committed to changing that, starting in the classroom and continuing throughout a scientific career. We're proud to support the Microbiology Society in the development of young people who may not otherwise see themselves represented in science." Dr Peter Cotgreave, Chief Executive of the Microbiology Society, added: "NEB's commitment to its role in advancing equity within the life sciences industry and the broader community mirrors the Society's work to ensure that equality, diversity, and inclusion are considered as part of everything we do. Our vision is a world in which microbiology provides maximum benefit to society, and this will only be achieved by bringing the perspectives of under-represented communities to our activities across the microbiology community. Our Vacation Studentships and Outreach and Engagement Grants offer invaluable opportunities to microbiologists, and we are delighted to partner with NEB as part of our mutual drive to expand access to science. The funding for two Vacation Studentship Grants and one Outreach and Engagement Grant will grow opportunities for Black students and Society members, and we look forward to awarding the first round of grants under this partnership."

New England biolabs(r) launches the nebnext(r) Companion Module for Oxford Nanopore technologies(r) Direct RNA Sequencing. New England Biolabs (NEB(R) has launched the NEBNext Companion Module for Oxford Nanopore Technologies Direct RNA Sequencing. The companion module contains the NEB reagents recommended by Oxford Nanopore for execution of the Direct RNA Sequencing workflow (RNA004 sequencing kit), providing a simple and convenient format for scientists performing a wide range of applications where direct sequencing of native RNA is critical. The companion module contains the recommended components in volumes compatible with the protocol and are lot-qualified together through preparation and sequencing. Featured is the recommended use of Induro(R) Reverse Transcriptase, an intron-encoded reverse transcriptase that is used for cDNA synthesis, primarily to reduce RNA secondary structure and improve passage of the RNA molecule through the pore, enhancing sequence yield and quality. "We are excited for this latest product offering from New England Biolabs to support customer implementation of direct RNA workflows," said Dr. Thomas Bray, VP Corporate Business Development, Oxford Nanopore Technologies. "The move to a purpose-built and quality-controlled module will enhance Oxford Nanopore customers' capability to implement a simple, convenient solution for their applications." Direct RNA sequencing presents new opportunities versus traditional approaches that rely on sequencing the corresponding cDNA, including applications for identifying RNA modifications, tRNA sequencing, and characterization of mRNA for therapeutic purposes. Deyra Rodríguez, Ph.D., MBA, and Product Marketing Manager for NEB stated "We're extremely excited to see where direct RNA sequencing will be used across academic and applied markets, as it represents a new modality for sequencing nucleic acids. We are excited to be able to offer this new module for Oxford Nanopore customers, and to be supporting this workflow." Stay connected. RNA-Seq products & services.