BIOPHOTONICS

SYLLABUS

1. Laser and LED principles, designs and parameters.
2. Basics of tissue optics.
3. Laser-tissue interactions.
4. Medical laser systems.
5. Clinical aspects of laser applications.
6. Biomaterials for Photonics.
7. Bioimaging: Principles, Techniques and Applications.
8. Near Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS).
9. Optical Biosensors.
10. Optics for the brain: Optogenetics

Learning outcomes

• Demonstrate good understanding of fundamental principles of light interaction with biological systems.
• Use the optical properties of tissue and calculate penetration depth of light.
• Understand the concept of diffraction limit and its impact to biophotonics applications.
• Following general approaches in biophotonics and develop complete solutions (instruments, protocols, and procedures) for specific biomedical problems e.g. imaging and diagnostics.
• Understand the principles of optical biosensors.
• Understand laser safety and able to perform safety calculations for specific lasers and their applications.
• Understand basic operating principles of NIRS techniques through hands-on experiential learning.
• Understand basic operating principles of Optogenetics

General Competences

• Knowledge of Biophotonics Principles: Develop a solid understanding of the fundamental principles of light-matter interaction in biological systems and the application of optical techniques in biomedical research and healthcare.
• Application of Optical Properties: Apply knowledge of the optical properties of tissues to calculate the penetration depth of light and make informed decisions regarding optical instrumentation and imaging modalities.
• Problem-Solving Skills: Develop problem-solving skills to address biomedical challenges by applying biophotonics approaches and developing complete solutions, including the design of instruments, protocols, and procedures.
• Understanding of Optical Biosensors: Gain a comprehensive understanding of the principles and operation of optical biosensors, enabling the development and implementation of biomedical sensing and diagnostic systems.
• Laser Safety Knowledge: Understand the principles of laser safety and perform safety calculations for specific lasers and their applications, ensuring the safe and responsible use of laser technology in biophotonics.
• Practical Experience with NIRS: Gain hands-on experience and a solid understanding of the principles and techniques of Near Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) for biomedical research and clinical applications.
• Familiarity with Optogenetics: Develop a basic understanding of the operating principles and applications of Optogenetics, particularly in studying neural activity in the brain using light-based techniques.
• Collaboration and Interdisciplinary Skills: Work effectively in interdisciplinary teams, collaborating with professionals from different fields, such as biology, optics, and medicine, to solve complex biomedical problems using biophotonics approaches.
• Critical Thinking and Analytical Skills: Apply critical thinking and analytical skills to analyze and interpret biophotonics data, make evidence-based decisions, and communicate findings effectively.