From 12 to 16 April, our group contributed several presentations at SPIE Photonics Europe 2026, highlighting current work in biomedical optics, Raman spectroscopy, and OCT-based imaging.
SPIE Photonics Europe 2026 brought together researchers, engineers, and technology developers working across photonics, imaging, and biomedical applications. Our group contributed several presentations on current developments in biomedical optics, with a particular focus on Raman spectroscopy, optical coherence tomography (OCT), translational imaging technologies, and data-driven analysis methods. The conference provided a broad scientific setting for discussing how optical technologies can support more precise and informative biomedical measurements.
Iwan Schie presented recent progress in high-throughput Raman spectroscopy and discussed the clinical translation of the InvaScope Raman endoscopy system in oncology. His contributions focused on the potential of Raman-based methods to support biomedical diagnostics by providing molecular information directly from tissue. Weizhi Yang introduced a new Raman probe with autofocus capability, based on a liquid lens with variable focal length. This approach aims to improve optical focusing during Raman measurements and may help make spectroscopic acquisition more robust in biomedical settings.
Further contributions addressed automated image analysis and multimodal imaging. Calvin Kreft presented an open-source framework for the analysis of intravascular OCT data using deep neural networks. The framework supports both stent detection and plaque classification, offering a flexible basis for automated image analysis in cardiovascular research. Annegret Umann presented a multimodal imaging system that combines OCT with autofluorescence imaging. By integrating structural and biochemical contrast, the system enables the simultaneous acquisition of morphological and molecularly relevant information.
Beyond the scientific sessions, SPIE Photonics Europe 2026 offered valuable opportunities for exchange with the international photonics community. Discussions with researchers from related fields opened new perspectives on current challenges and future directions in biomedical optics. The conference setting in Strasbourg also provided space for informal conversations, professional networking, and exploring the city with colleagues. Together, the presentations and discussions reflected the continuing importance of optical technologies for biomedical research and translational imaging.
