About the project
This PhD project aims to develop advanced entangled photon sources for quantum enhanced microscopy, enabling high-resolution, label-free, deep-tissue imaging. By combining mid-infrared probing with near-infrared detection, the project leverages quantum physics to overcome limitations of classical microscopy in biomedical research.
Quantum enhanced microscopy offers improved resolution, sensitivity, and speed compared to classical optical imaging, making it a promising tool for biomedical applications. This project aims to develop advanced entangled photon sources to support this emerging imaging method.
Optical microscopy is widely used in biological research for visualizing tissues in their natural state. However, most current systems rely on visible or near-infrared light, which limits their ability to image deeply or without labels. In contrast, the mid-infrared spectrum contains distinct molecular vibrational and rotational signatures that can be used as a natural contrast mechanism, enabling label-free imaging. This is particularly useful for observing living tissues without altering them. A major limitation of mid-infrared imaging, however, is the lack of efficient detectors.
Quantum enhanced microscopy can address this challenge. It uses pairs of entangled photons at different wavelengths: one in the mid-infrared to probe the sample, and the other in the near-infrared to carry the image information. Only the near-infrared photon is detected, taking advantage of existing high-performance detectors, while still capturing the benefits of mid-infrared imaging. This approach enables deeper tissue penetration and molecular-specific contrast without the need for direct detection of mid-infrared light.
The project will focus on developing laser systems capable of generating these entangled photons efficiently for practical use in microscopy.
