It is with great sadness that we have to inform the members of the European Microscopy Society that after a long illness, our highly respected colleague Roger Wepf passed away on 8th of June, 2026.
Electron microscopy and imaging in general was Roger’s big passion. He was deeply committed to advancing imaging technology and to the preparation of biological specimens in particular.
Following positions in Zurich, Heidelberg, and Hamburg, he found an inspiring professional environment for the last 10 years in Brisbane, Australia. For over three decades, Roger has been driving the microscopy community forward with his remarkable enthusiasm and inspiration.
Roger consistently kept an eye on upcoming developments, especially on the integration and combination of diverse techniques. As such, he was one of the initiators of the new microscopy journal, “Methods in Microscopy” which focusses on highlighting and describing the technical details of experimental approaches for any kind of microscopy. This initiative exemplifies Roger’s exceptional spirit; a great eye for important small details.
As a highly collaborative colleague and friend, Roger will be greatly missed as an excellent scientist. We remember him not least for his role as President of the European Microscopy Society from 2012 to 2016, during which time he worked tirelessly to shape the field of electron microscopy in Europe and beyond.
We will always remember Roger Wepf as a warm and valued colleague and friend, and we will deeply miss his presence and leadership.
Thomas Müller-Reichert and Paul Verkade for the EMS board