Founded in 1937
as an American source of precision optics, Perkin-Elmer entered the emerging field of
analytical instrumentation in the 1940s. This new technology, a forerunner of today's
instruments of chemical analysis, created the tools that scientists used around the world
to observe, identify, measure, analyze, and understand the structure and composition of
substances at their complex molecular level. Indeed, the knowledge gained by scientists
using these instruments contributed to scores of technological developments over the
decades -- from new materials such as plastics and synthetic fibers to new pharmaceuticals
and advances in biotechnology.
With more than 60 percent of revenues coming from outside the United States,
Perkin-Elmer’s long-time strength in global markets has been integral to its
leadership. An international competitor since it was founded, the Company has established
a reputation for quality products backed by extensive customer service and support. More
than 5,700 employees in nearly 100 countries are involved in developing, manufacturing,
marketing, and servicing Perkin-Elmer products.
Operating Highlights
Perkin-Elmer’s core businesses -- life science systems and analytical instrumentation
-- form the platform for its growth into the 21st century. Paving the way for this growth
has been a series of strategic acquisitions, partnerships, and joint ventures over the
past year or more.
Here are some highlights:
- Acquisition of Photovac, Inc. a leading company in portable instrumentation used for
on-site analysis, provides Perkin-Elmer with advanced miniaturization technology. Purchase
of Tropix, Inc., a world leader in chemiluminescent detection technology, expands
Perkin-Elmer’s opportunities to develop screening systems and services for
pharmaceutical research companies.
- An investment in Paracel, Inc., as well as collaborations with that company and with
Molecular Informatics, Inc., allow Perkin-Elmer to provide its customers with improved
organization and management of the large quantities of data generated by PE’s genetic
analysis instruments. An exclusive licensing agreement with LXR Biotechnology ,
Inc., gives Perkin-Elmer exclusive rights to LXR’s patented scanning laser digital
imaging technology which can be utilized to develop products with broad applications in
such areas as basic biomedical research. A license from Roche Molecular Systems, Inc., and
F. Hoffmann - La Roche Ltd. expands Perkin-Elmer’s use of PCR with its DNA analysis
systems from the development of systems for research to the development of diagnostic
systems. A supply and marketing agreement with Hybridon, Inc., widens the
Company’s capabilities in the growing field of synthetic DNA.
- A research collaboration with SmithKline Beecham aims to develop automated data
management and analysis systems that will speed the drug discovery process for the
pharmaceutical industry.
- Acquisition of GenScope, Inc., developer of a unique gene expression technology,
provides PE with a powerful analysis tool for use in identifying gene targets for drug
development and other life science applications A collaboration with
HySeq, Inc.,
will accelerate the development of a new generation of DNA
microarray systems that combine PE’s genetic analysis technology and HySeq’s
HyChipTM technology that will enable the commercialization of a "universal"
chip.
- An agreement with Tecan U.S. Inc. will develop systems that automate
synthesis of organic compounds. This technology will speed the combinatorial chemistry
applications used in pharmaceutical development.
- The acquisition of Linkage Genetics. Inc., resulted in the formation of PE
AgGen, the
leading provider of DNA analysis services for plant and animal breeding. Linkage Genetics,
which was a leader in providing genetic services to the agricultural industry, was
combined with the Company’s PE Zoogen and Applied Agriculture units.
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