Quantum and computational imaging technology for bio-imaging

There is a need for enhanced imaging capability to assist research and development of novel drugs, drug delivery systems and control of the effects of these drugs. One area of particular interest is the control of the evolution of neurodegenerative diseases. Much research is carried on mouse models, yet the techniques used here are typically very invasive therefore raising questions around the validity of results, typically based on change in behaviour and brain activity in the mouse mode itself. It would be highly desirable to have remote/contactless way of monitoring mouse models such that results are not affected in any way by the monitoring process itself.
Aims and Objectives
One of the main objectives will be the use of single photon imaging technology combined with computational techniques to monitor neuron cell collectives, to establish a clear connection between neuron activity and observable changes with our imaging techniques that are remote and non-invasive. We will then aim to explore options for expanding these techniques to the full brain, possibly even with the through-skull imaging capability.
Novelty of the research methodology
The main novelty lies in the challenge to remotely monitor neuron activity and the deployment of novel single photon sensing capability to solve outstanding imaging problems in the life sciences.