Tailored Optics for Life Sciences Engineering: Multifunctional, Multiscale, Monololithic Optics for Biomedical Manipulation and Diagnostics (TOOLS)

• Subject Area: Optics, Quantum Optics and Physics of Atoms, Molecules and Plasmas ; Medicine ; Production Technology
• Term: since 2024
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 528591139

The research impulse TOOLS - Tailored Optics for Life Sciences Engineering - initiates an interdisciplinary and symbiotic research collaboration with partners from the fields of optics & photonics, biomedical engineering and clinical research. TOOLS targets basic research in optical technologies and biophotonic techniques and applies the experience gained to improve the fundamental understanding of biomedical processes in the clinical setting. The specific research areas comprise multifunctional monolithic optical components, tailored multilayer diffractive elements, increasing the detection sensitivity of label-free bionanoparticle (bioNP) screening and non-invasive bioNP confinement, deep tissue endoscopy, and multimodal biophotonic diagnostics of middle ear infections. A group of junior and experienced scientists from Ernst-Abbe-Hochschule Jena (EAH Jena) with a background in synergetic complementary disciplines and a partner from the Jena University Hospital form the collaborative center of this endeavor. Jena in Thuringia is known worldwide for its unique, diverse and vibrant culture of innovation in the fields of optics, precision engineering and life sciences. The economy is characterized by numerous high-tech start-ups and established market leaders offering cuttingedge optical and medical technology in international markets. Jena is also home to outstanding scientific institutions of high international reputation. In this innovative environment, the EAH Jena is an important and well-integrated partner. With TOOLS, a knowledge-based research competence in the field of optical technologies and biophotonics is established at EAH Jena, thus bridging the gap between knowledge-based research and application-oriented research to address unmet medical needs. TOOLS will also strengthen the external awareness of the EAH Jena, helping to attract top talent for professorships and inspiring more young people to study at EAH Jena.

• DFG Programme: Research Impulses
• Applicant Institution: Ernst-Abbe-Hochschule Jena
• Participating Institution: Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena
• Spokesperson: Professor Dr. Robert Brunner
• Participating Researchers: Professor Dr. Jens Bliedtner; Professorin Dr. Maria Dienerowitz; Professor Dr. Orlando Guntinas-Lichius; Iwan Schie, Ph.D.