Key Insights
The European biobanks market, valued at approximately €1.5 billion in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, driven by increasing investments in research and development, particularly within regenerative medicine, drug discovery, and disease research. The rising prevalence of chronic diseases, coupled with the expanding application of biobanking in personalized medicine, fuels this expansion. Technological advancements in cryogenic storage systems and optimized media further enhance efficiency and sample quality, contributing to market growth. Germany, France, and the United Kingdom represent the largest national markets within Europe, benefiting from well-established research infrastructure and government support for biomedical initiatives. The market is segmented by application (regenerative medicine holding the largest share, followed by drug discovery and disease research), equipment (cryogenic storage systems dominating due to their crucial role in sample preservation), media (optimized media exhibiting higher growth due to improved sample quality), and services (human tissue biobanking being the most prominent, followed by stem cell and cord banking). Competitive dynamics are shaped by a mix of large multinational corporations and specialized biotechnology companies, each offering a diverse range of products and services.
Growth is anticipated to continue at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 6.5% from 2025 to 2033, reaching an estimated value of approximately €2.6 billion by 2033. However, market expansion faces some constraints, including stringent regulatory frameworks governing biospecimen collection and storage, as well as concerns related to data privacy and ethical considerations surrounding the use of biological samples. Despite these challenges, the long-term outlook for the European biobanks market remains positive, driven by the continued advancements in life sciences research and the growing demand for personalized healthcare solutions. The market's future trajectory will be heavily influenced by the success of ongoing research initiatives, technological innovations, and evolving regulatory landscapes.

Europe Biobanks Market: A Comprehensive Report (2019-2033)
This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of the Europe Biobanks Market, encompassing market dynamics, growth trends, regional segmentation, product landscape, key players, and future outlook. The report covers the period from 2019 to 2033, with a base year of 2025 and a forecast period of 2025-2033. The market is segmented by application (Regenerative Medicine, Drug Discovery, Disease Research), equipment (Cryogenic Storage Systems), media (Optimized Media, Non-optimized Media), and services (Human Tissue Biobanking, Stem Cell Biobanking, Cord Banking, DNA/RNA Biobanking, Other Services). The total market size in 2025 is estimated at xx Million, projected to reach xx Million by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of xx% during the forecast period.
Europe Biobanks Market Market Dynamics & Structure
The Europe biobanks market is characterized by moderate concentration, with a few large players and numerous smaller specialized companies. Technological innovation, particularly in automation, cryopreservation, and data management, is a key driver. Stringent regulatory frameworks, including GDPR and ethical guidelines regarding human tissue and data, significantly influence market operations. Competitive substitutes include alternative research methods, but biobanks offer unique advantages in terms of sample quality and standardization. The end-user demographics encompass academic research institutions, pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, and hospitals. M&A activity has been moderate, with larger companies acquiring smaller specialized biobanks to expand their service portfolios and geographical reach. In 2024, approximately xx M&A deals were recorded in the European Biobanking sector, resulting in a market share consolidation of approximately xx%.
- Market Concentration: Moderately concentrated, with xx% market share held by top 5 players in 2024.
- Technological Innovation: Focus on automation, AI-driven data analysis, and advanced cryopreservation techniques.
- Regulatory Landscape: Stringent regulations governing data privacy (GDPR), ethical considerations, and sample handling.
- Competitive Substitutes: Alternative research methods, but biobanks offer unique advantages in sample standardization.
- End-User Demographics: Academic institutions, pharmaceutical and biotech companies, hospitals, and clinical research organizations.
- M&A Trends: Moderate activity, driven by expansion of service portfolios and geographical reach.
Europe Biobanks Market Growth Trends & Insights
The Europe biobanks market has experienced consistent growth over the historical period (2019-2024), driven by the increasing demand for biological samples in research and development, particularly in regenerative medicine, drug discovery, and personalized medicine. The adoption rate of advanced technologies such as automated sample management systems and high-throughput screening platforms has been steadily increasing. Technological disruptions, particularly in genomics and proteomics, are continuously creating new opportunities for biobanks to expand their services. Consumer behavior shifts, such as increased awareness of data privacy and ethical considerations, are shaping the market landscape. The market size grew from xx Million in 2019 to xx Million in 2024, representing a CAGR of xx%. Market penetration for advanced cryogenic storage systems is estimated at xx% in 2025, expected to rise to xx% by 2033.

Dominant Regions, Countries, or Segments in Europe Biobanks Market
Germany, the UK, and France are currently the leading countries in the European biobanks market, driven by strong research infrastructure, government funding, and a high concentration of pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies. Within the application segment, Regenerative Medicine exhibits the highest growth potential due to increasing investments in cell-based therapies. Cryogenic storage systems dominate the equipment segment due to their crucial role in sample preservation. Human tissue biobanking and stem cell biobanking are the leading service segments.
- Key Drivers: Government funding for research, strong pharmaceutical and biotech industries, advanced infrastructure.
- Germany: Strong research infrastructure and government support for life sciences.
- UK: Significant investment in genomics research and a large pool of qualified scientists.
- France: Growing focus on regenerative medicine and personalized medicine initiatives.
- Regenerative Medicine: Highest growth potential due to increasing investments in cell therapies.
- Cryogenic Storage Systems: Dominates the equipment segment due to crucial role in sample preservation.
Europe Biobanks Market Product Landscape
The product landscape is characterized by continuous innovation in cryopreservation technologies, sample management systems, and data management software. New products focus on improving sample quality, reducing storage costs, and enhancing data accessibility. Unique selling propositions include improved automation, enhanced data security, and customized solutions for specific applications. Technological advancements include the development of more efficient cryoprotective agents, the implementation of AI-driven data analysis tools, and the integration of blockchain technology for enhanced data security.
Key Drivers, Barriers & Challenges in Europe Biobanks Market
Key Drivers:
- Increased R&D investment in biopharmaceuticals and personalized medicine.
- Growing demand for biological samples for research and development.
- Technological advancements in sample storage and management.
- Government initiatives promoting biobanking infrastructure.
Challenges and Restraints:
- Stringent regulations and ethical guidelines related to human tissue and data privacy.
- High cost of equipment and infrastructure.
- Skilled labor shortages in biobanking operations.
- Potential supply chain disruptions impacting the availability of consumables.
Emerging Opportunities in Europe Biobanks Market
- Expansion into underserved regions within Europe.
- Development of biobanks specializing in specific disease areas (e.g., rare diseases).
- Integration of advanced technologies such as AI and machine learning for data analysis.
- Growing demand for personalized medicine and precision therapies.
Growth Accelerators in the Europe Biobanks Market Industry
Strategic partnerships between biobanks, pharmaceutical companies, and research institutions are accelerating market growth. Technological breakthroughs in sample preservation, data management, and automation are creating new opportunities. Market expansion strategies such as geographical diversification and service portfolio expansion are key drivers of growth.
Key Players Shaping the Europe Biobanks Market Market
- Becton Dickinson and Company
- BioLife Solutions Inc
- Sigma-Aldrich Inc (Merck KGaA)
- Atlanta Biologicals Inc (Bio-Techne Corporation)
- STEMCELL Technologies Inc
- Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc
- Chart Industries Inc
- VWR International LLC
- Hamilton Company
- Qiagen NV
Notable Milestones in Europe Biobanks Market Sector
- 2021: Launch of a new automated sample management system by Thermo Fisher Scientific.
- 2022: Acquisition of a smaller biobank by Qiagen NV, expanding its service portfolio.
- 2023: Implementation of new GDPR-compliant data management software across multiple European biobanks.
- 2024: Several key partnerships formed between biobanks and pharmaceutical companies for collaborative research projects.
In-Depth Europe Biobanks Market Market Outlook
The future of the European biobanks market looks promising, driven by ongoing technological advancements, increased research funding, and the growing demand for biological samples in various research applications. Strategic partnerships, focus on data security and compliance, and expansion into personalized medicine will shape future market growth. Significant opportunities exist for companies that can provide innovative solutions, enhance data management capabilities, and address ethical and regulatory concerns. The market is expected to continue its steady growth trajectory, driven by the ongoing need for high-quality biological samples in the advancement of medical research and the development of novel therapies.
Europe Biobanks Market Segmentation
-
1. Equipment
-
1.1. Cryogenic Storage Systems
- 1.1.1. Refrigerators
- 1.1.2. Ice Machines
- 1.1.3. Freezers
- 1.2. Alarm Monitoring Systems
- 1.3. Other Equipment
-
1.1. Cryogenic Storage Systems
-
2. Media
- 2.1. Optimized Media
- 2.2. Non-optimized Media
-
3. Services
- 3.1. Human Tissue Biobanking
- 3.2. Stem Cell Biobanking
- 3.3. Cord Banking
- 3.4. DNA/RNA Biobanking
- 3.5. Other Services
-
4. Application
- 4.1. Regenerative Medicine
- 4.2. Drug Discovery
- 4.3. Disease Research
Europe Biobanks Market Segmentation By Geography
-
1. Europe
- 1.1. United Kingdom
- 1.2. Germany
- 1.3. France
- 1.4. Italy
- 1.5. Spain
- 1.6. Netherlands
- 1.7. Belgium
- 1.8. Sweden
- 1.9. Norway
- 1.10. Poland
- 1.11. Denmark

Europe Biobanks Market REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
Aspects | Details |
---|---|
Study Period | 2019-2033 |
Base Year | 2024 |
Estimated Year | 2025 |
Forecast Period | 2025-2033 |
Historical Period | 2019-2024 |
Growth Rate | CAGR of 6.50% from 2019-2033 |
Segmentation |
|
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 1.1. Research Scope
- 1.2. Market Segmentation
- 1.3. Research Methodology
- 1.4. Definitions and Assumptions
- 2. Executive Summary
- 2.1. Introduction
- 3. Market Dynamics
- 3.1. Introduction
- 3.2. Market Drivers
- 3.2.1. ; Advancements in Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research; Rising Burden of Chronic Diseases; R&D Funding and Investments by Government and Non-Governmental Organizations
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. ; Regulatory Issues; Cost Constraints
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Alarm Monitoring Systems Segment is Expected to Show Better Growth in the Forecast Years
- 4. Market Factor Analysis
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 4.2. Supply/Value Chain
- 4.3. PESTEL analysis
- 4.4. Market Entropy
- 4.5. Patent/Trademark Analysis
- 5. Europe Biobanks Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Equipment
- 5.1.1. Cryogenic Storage Systems
- 5.1.1.1. Refrigerators
- 5.1.1.2. Ice Machines
- 5.1.1.3. Freezers
- 5.1.2. Alarm Monitoring Systems
- 5.1.3. Other Equipment
- 5.1.1. Cryogenic Storage Systems
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Media
- 5.2.1. Optimized Media
- 5.2.2. Non-optimized Media
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Services
- 5.3.1. Human Tissue Biobanking
- 5.3.2. Stem Cell Biobanking
- 5.3.3. Cord Banking
- 5.3.4. DNA/RNA Biobanking
- 5.3.5. Other Services
- 5.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 5.4.1. Regenerative Medicine
- 5.4.2. Drug Discovery
- 5.4.3. Disease Research
- 5.5. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.5.1. Europe
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Equipment
- 6. Europe Europe Biobanks Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 6.1.1. undefined
- 7. Germany Europe Biobanks Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 7.1.1. undefined
- 8. France Europe Biobanks Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 8.1.1. undefined
- 9. Italy Europe Biobanks Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 9.1.1. undefined
- 10. United Kingdom Europe Biobanks Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 10.1.1. undefined
- 11. Netherlands Europe Biobanks Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 11.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - By Country/Sub-region
- 11.1.1. undefined
- 12. Competitive Analysis
- 12.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- 12.2. Company Profiles
- 12.2.1 Becton Dickinson and Company
- 12.2.1.1. Overview
- 12.2.1.2. Products
- 12.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 12.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 12.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 12.2.2 BioLifeSolutions Inc
- 12.2.2.1. Overview
- 12.2.2.2. Products
- 12.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 12.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 12.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 12.2.3 Sigma-Aldrich Inc (Merck KGaA)
- 12.2.3.1. Overview
- 12.2.3.2. Products
- 12.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 12.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 12.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 12.2.4 Atlanta Biologicals Inc (Bio-Techne Corporation)
- 12.2.4.1. Overview
- 12.2.4.2. Products
- 12.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 12.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 12.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 12.2.5 STEMCELL Technologies Inc
- 12.2.5.1. Overview
- 12.2.5.2. Products
- 12.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 12.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 12.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 12.2.6 Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc
- 12.2.6.1. Overview
- 12.2.6.2. Products
- 12.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 12.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 12.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 12.2.7 Chart Industries Inc
- 12.2.7.1. Overview
- 12.2.7.2. Products
- 12.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 12.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 12.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 12.2.8 VWR International LLC
- 12.2.8.1. Overview
- 12.2.8.2. Products
- 12.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 12.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 12.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 12.2.9 Hamilton Company
- 12.2.9.1. Overview
- 12.2.9.2. Products
- 12.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 12.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 12.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 12.2.10 Qiagen NV
- 12.2.10.1. Overview
- 12.2.10.2. Products
- 12.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 12.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 12.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 12.2.1 Becton Dickinson and Company
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Europe Biobanks Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Product 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: Europe Biobanks Market Share (%) by Company 2024
List of Tables
- Table 1: Europe Biobanks Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: Europe Biobanks Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: Europe Biobanks Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Equipment 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: Europe Biobanks Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Equipment 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: Europe Biobanks Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Media 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: Europe Biobanks Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Media 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: Europe Biobanks Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Services 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: Europe Biobanks Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Services 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: Europe Biobanks Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: Europe Biobanks Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: Europe Biobanks Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: Europe Biobanks Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: Europe Biobanks Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: Europe Biobanks Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: Europe Biobanks Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: Europe Biobanks Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: Europe Biobanks Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: Europe Biobanks Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: Europe Biobanks Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: Europe Biobanks Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: Europe Biobanks Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: Europe Biobanks Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: Europe Biobanks Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 24: Europe Biobanks Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 25: Europe Biobanks Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Equipment 2019 & 2032
- Table 26: Europe Biobanks Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Equipment 2019 & 2032
- Table 27: Europe Biobanks Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Media 2019 & 2032
- Table 28: Europe Biobanks Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Media 2019 & 2032
- Table 29: Europe Biobanks Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Services 2019 & 2032
- Table 30: Europe Biobanks Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Services 2019 & 2032
- Table 31: Europe Biobanks Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 32: Europe Biobanks Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 33: Europe Biobanks Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 34: Europe Biobanks Market Volume K Unit Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 35: United Kingdom Europe Biobanks Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 36: United Kingdom Europe Biobanks Market Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 37: Germany Europe Biobanks Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 38: Germany Europe Biobanks Market Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 39: France Europe Biobanks Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 40: France Europe Biobanks Market Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 41: Italy Europe Biobanks Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 42: Italy Europe Biobanks Market Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 43: Spain Europe Biobanks Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 44: Spain Europe Biobanks Market Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 45: Netherlands Europe Biobanks Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 46: Netherlands Europe Biobanks Market Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 47: Belgium Europe Biobanks Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 48: Belgium Europe Biobanks Market Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 49: Sweden Europe Biobanks Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 50: Sweden Europe Biobanks Market Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 51: Norway Europe Biobanks Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 52: Norway Europe Biobanks Market Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 53: Poland Europe Biobanks Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 54: Poland Europe Biobanks Market Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 55: Denmark Europe Biobanks Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 56: Denmark Europe Biobanks Market Volume (K Unit) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Europe Biobanks Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately 6.50%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Europe Biobanks Market?
Key companies in the market include Becton Dickinson and Company, BioLifeSolutions Inc, Sigma-Aldrich Inc (Merck KGaA), Atlanta Biologicals Inc (Bio-Techne Corporation), STEMCELL Technologies Inc, Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc, Chart Industries Inc, VWR International LLC, Hamilton Company, Qiagen NV.
3. What are the main segments of the Europe Biobanks Market?
The market segments include Equipment, Media, Services, Application.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD XX Million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
; Advancements in Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research; Rising Burden of Chronic Diseases; R&D Funding and Investments by Government and Non-Governmental Organizations.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Alarm Monitoring Systems Segment is Expected to Show Better Growth in the Forecast Years.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
; Regulatory Issues; Cost Constraints.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
N/A
9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?
Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 4750, USD 5250, and USD 8750 respectively.
10. Is the market size provided in terms of value or volume?
The market size is provided in terms of value, measured in Million and volume, measured in K Unit.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "Europe Biobanks Market," which aids in identifying and referencing the specific market segment covered.
12. How do I determine which pricing option suits my needs best?
The pricing options vary based on user requirements and access needs. Individual users may opt for single-user licenses, while businesses requiring broader access may choose multi-user or enterprise licenses for cost-effective access to the report.
13. Are there any additional resources or data provided in the Europe Biobanks Market report?
While the report offers comprehensive insights, it's advisable to review the specific contents or supplementary materials provided to ascertain if additional resources or data are available.
14. How can I stay updated on further developments or reports in the Europe Biobanks Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Europe Biobanks Market, consider subscribing to industry newsletters, following relevant companies and organizations, or regularly checking reputable industry news sources and publications.
Methodology
Step 1 - Identification of Relevant Samples Size from Population Database



Step 2 - Approaches for Defining Global Market Size (Value, Volume* & Price*)

Note*: In applicable scenarios
Step 3 - Data Sources
Primary Research
- Web Analytics
- Survey Reports
- Research Institute
- Latest Research Reports
- Opinion Leaders
Secondary Research
- Annual Reports
- White Paper
- Latest Press Release
- Industry Association
- Paid Database
- Investor Presentations

Step 4 - Data Triangulation
Involves using different sources of information in order to increase the validity of a study
These sources are likely to be stakeholders in a program - participants, other researchers, program staff, other community members, and so on.
Then we put all data in single framework & apply various statistical tools to find out the dynamic on the market.
During the analysis stage, feedback from the stakeholder groups would be compared to determine areas of agreement as well as areas of divergence