Peter O’Toole Leads Inspiring EVOLVE Mentoring Masterclass on Imaging Core Facility Leadership

The EVOLVE Team2025 Mentoring Masterclass series kicked off with an engaging session featuring Peter O'Toole, President of the Royal Microscopical Society and Director of the Bioscience Technology Facility at the University of York. Held on February 24, the event delved into the entrepreneurial and managerial skills essential for leading successful imaging core facilities.

O’Toole shared expert insights on balancing science, business, and technology, offering strategies for long-term facility success and sustainable growth.

Key Takeaways

A thriving imaging core facility requires vision, leadership, and adaptability. O’Toole emphasized the need to keep stakeholders informed, engage with decision-makers, and break through institutional barriers. He also highlighted authorship in scientific publications as a key metric for credibility and funding success.

At the heart of every great facility is its staff. Investing in staff, fostering collaboration, and mentoring users at all levels builds a resilient and high-performing team. Cross-training employees enhances adaptability and ensures continuity in service and innovation.

Social media isn’t just for outreach—it’s a game changer for facility growth. Digital platforms can attract industry partnerships, boost visibility, and open doors to new funding opportunities.

“To stay relevant, facilities must continuously evolve,” O’Toole advised. Expanding networks, embracing flexibility, and bridging academia with industry ensures sustainability and impact of imaging and technology facilities.

Missed the EVOLVE Masterclass? Get the Key Insights!

The session recording is exclusively available to EVOLVE Team2025 members, but the entire imaging community can still benefit.

📥 Download the Class Guide to access key insights and strategies shared during the event. This essential resource offers a roadmap for strengthening and future-proofing imaging core facilities.