Thermo Fisher Scientific has agreed to sell its microbiology business to European private-equity firm Astorg for approximately $1.075 billion. The transaction represents the latest in a series of portfolio optimization moves by the healthcare and life sciences giant. The business provides critical testing solutions for clinical, pharmaceutical, and food-safety applications, with established relationships across multiple industries.

The microbiology division generated $645 million in revenue last year, according to Thermo Fisher's announcement on Monday. The sale highlights the company's strategy of focusing on higher-growth segments within its broader portfolio. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing and culture media solutions form the core of the divested business, which has been part of Thermo Fisher's offering for several years.

The deal underscores continued strong private equity activity in the life sciences sector despite economic uncertainty. Astorg gains an established player with a strong market position in the microbiology testing space. The transaction is expected to close pending regulatory approvals, with Thermo Fisher likely to use the proceeds for strategic investments in other areas.