Optical and Laser Technology

The four optical/spectroscopic BTRCs develop optical instrumentation and methodologies to probe the structure and dynamics of biologically relevant samples ranging in complexity from single molecules to cells and tissues. Innovative technologies are applied to elucidate fundamental biological mechanisms and to diagnose and investigate molecular and cellular abnormalities, both in vitro and in vivo. Development of cutting-edge technologies requires integration of multiple disciplines, including physics, chemistry, engineering and biological sciences. The centers are situated in major research institutions that provide a multidisciplinary environment with a wide range of expertise and resources. This milieu promotes the collaborative ventures with laboratory scientists and clinicians that drive technology development and translation to the clinic and marketplace.