Today we speak to Merten Kuna, Application Engineer within the Microscopy Business Unit Europe, about his responsibilities and his expertise in the Industrial Microscopy
- Could you please tell us your responsibilities within Nikon Microscopy Business Unit, Europe?
As an Application Engineer, I support our sales teams on projects involving advanced automation and complex software integration. I also conduct training sessions for both customers and colleagues, and provide guidance on best practices to ensure optimal use of our products.
- What are the best parts of your job?
The variety. My role is a great mix of technical problem-solving—like programming—and working directly with people. The most rewarding moments are when customers realize just how much our solutions can simplify their daily tasks and workflows.
- Any anecdote that you would like to share with our readers?
During a training session following a microscope installation, the team supervisor pulled me aside and said, “Please don’t show them all the software features—otherwise, they’ll be playing with it all day!” It’s always fun to see how engaging our technology can be.
- How important is artificial intelligence to the microscopy business?
AI is becoming a cornerstone of modern microscopy. As we transition from manual to automated inspection, AI enables software to analyze samples more independently, reducing reliance on human interpretation and enhancing consistency.
- Why is Automated Microscopy so important to our modern-day customer?
Our customers are under constant pressure to increase speed, accuracy, and traceability. Automation helps address these demands by enabling motorized stage control, repeatable inspection workflows, and AI-supported evaluations—all of which improve efficiency and reliability.
- What sectors & industries can benefit from using these solutions and why?
Any industry aiming to reduce manual operations can benefit—this includes automotive, medical device manufacturing, semiconductors, electronics, and many more. Our solutions streamline inspections, improve data consistency, and free up skilled operators for more critical tasks.
- Why does Nikon talk about software first in developing customer solutions?
Because software defines the user experience. In today’s digital microscopy landscape, the microscope is no longer the sole hero—the software is the critical interface between the user and the system. Just like modern cars rely on digital dashboards and automation to simplify driving, we believe microscopy should feel just as intuitive and powerful.
- What is the best thing about Nikon Microscopy Solutions?
Nikon offers a complete ecosystem—from optics to automation—developed in-house. But what truly sets us apart is our experienced team. With decades of expertise in metrology, we’re deeply committed to understanding our customers’ needs and delivering tailored, effective solutions.
