CERN, NTNU and Thalheimer Holding AG have entered into a landmark agreement that could redefine the future of ultra-low temperature technologies

Geneva, April 2026 — In a move widely viewed as both strategically significant and technologically transformative, three major global institutions have entered into a landmark agreement that could redefine the future of ultra-low temperature technologies. The partnership, formalized in Geneva, signals a coordinated push toward innovation at the intersection of science, industry, and advanced medical infrastructure. At the centre of this initiative are CERN (the European Organization for Nuclear Research), NTNU (Norwegian University of Science and Technology), and Thalheimer Holding AG (the leading German group of Medical Refrigeration Industrial Companies), each bringing significant institutional weight and global influence. Together, they aim to pioneer the use of a new natural gas solution designed specifically for ultra-low temperature freezing systems - a development expected to have far-reaching implications across healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and high-precision industrial sectors. Observers note that the agreement reflects a broader shift toward international cooperation in critical technologies, particularly those tied to resilience in medical supply chains and next-generation industrial capabilities. By anchoring the initiative at CERN, one of the world’s most advanced scientific research hubs, the collaboration underscores both ambition and credibility. Speaking at the signing, Dr. Sohayb Al-Niaimi, CEO of Thalheimer Holding AG, emphasized that financial and resources constraints would not stand in the way of success. He framed the project as a “defining investment in the infrastructure of the future,” positioning Thalheimer as a key industrial driver behind the initiative. Representing NTNU, Prof. Dr. Armin Hafner highlighted the mobilization of top-tier research talent, confirming that dedicated doctoral engineers will be deployed over the next two years to the initiative. He described the effort as “a decisive leap toward engineering breakthroughs that align scientific theory with industrial-scale application.” Han Dols, CERN Knowledge Transfer Group Leader, reinforced the Laboratory’s backing of the project and its potential impact at the global level: “This collaboration brings together complementary expertise to accelerate the path from scientific discovery to deployment. By exploring alternative solutions for ultra-low temperature systems, we are not only advancing the technology itself, but also contributing to more sustainable and resilient infrastructures in sectors where reliability is critical.” The agreement is an example that reflects Europe’s intent to maintain leadership in advanced technologies while fostering alliances between research institutions and private industry. If successful, the initiative could establish a new benchmark for ultra-low temperature systems and position the consortium at the forefront of a rapidly evolving sector.