Customized optics for engineering solutions in the life sciences
Project period |
Apr 01, 2024 – Apr 01, 2029 |
Sponsor |
German Research Foundation (DFG) |
Project Management |
Prof. Dr. Robert Brunner |
Budget |
5 000 000 € |
Funding code |
FIP 31/1-2024 – No. 528591139 |
Research partner |
Prof. Dr. Robert Brunner (EAH Jena) Prof. Dr. Iwan Schie (EAH Jena) |
Website |
TOOLS (Tailored Optics for Life Sciences Engineering) is a DFG-funded research initiative at the Ernst Abbe University of Applied Sciences Jena, conducted in close collaboration with partners from Jena University Hospital. The project unites experts in optics, photonics, biomedical engineering, and clinical research to develop innovative optical solutions for biomedical applications and diagnostics.
The core vision of TOOLS is to establish a knowledge-based research competence that bridges fundamental optical science with clinical implementation. By advancing optical technologies and biophotonic methods, the initiative aims to deepen the understanding of biomedical processes and translate these insights into practical tools for medical diagnostics and therapy monitoring.
TOOLS covers the entire value chain—from optical design and instrument development to non-invasive diagnostic applications and translational biomedical research. The collaboration with clinical partners ensures a transdisciplinary workflow, integrating scientific, engineering, and medical expertise from the outset. This seamless connection between basic research and clinical use helps close the gap between laboratory innovation and real-world diagnostic practice.
The consortium comprises five dedicated research areas:
- MLDOE – Design of tailored multilayer diffractive optical elements
- FFM – Development of multifunctional freeform-monolithic optical components
- DTI – Deep-tissue endoscopy
- NBPM – Nanoscopic bioparticle manipulation
- IOMEI – Multimodal biophotonic diagnostics of middle ear inflammation
All research areas are supported by two cross-sectional units:
- ZAKI – Center for Applied Artificial Intelligence, enabling data-driven processing and analysis
- SciTS – Science of Team Science, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge integration
By merging expertise from physics, engineering, medicine, and psychology, TOOLS creates a comprehensive framework for interdisciplinary innovation in biomedical optics. This collaborative structure not only accelerates technological development but also fosters a deeper understanding of the opportunities and boundaries of photonic technologies in life sciences.
More Informations about this project can be found on the official TOOLS-Website.
Katharina Seiffarth
Konstantin Gramatte
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