Oxford Instruments is a global leader in advanced instrumentation with group turnover of £187m for the year ended 31st March 2003 and 1,560 employees globally. It is a recognised world leader in several technologies, including the application of superconductivity, the creation of low temperatures, the production and detection of X-rays and in neurological measurements. The company's products are used around the world in healthcare, semiconductor processing, scientific research, industrial chemical analysis and quality control. Its customers include most of the world's major international companies as well as the leading hospitals and research institutes.