The Leibniz Institute of Photonic Technology (IPHT) in Jena, Germany, and the University at Albany, State University of New York, USA, have launched the Center for Biophotonic Technology and Artificial Intelligence (CeBAI) at the University at Albany. The new center brings together photonic technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) to develop innovative solutions for medicine and forensics, and to accelerate their path to market. The kickoff event in Albany marks the beginning of a close scientific collaboration that will connect researchers from both countries to advance cutting-edge optical technologies.

“Leibniz-IPHT is a world leader in the advancement of optical health technologies,” says Igor Lednev, distinguished professor at the University at Albany. “At CeBAI, we aim to combine our expertise to jointly develop new technological solutions that are urgently needed in these fields.”

“The University at Albany brings extensive expertise in the application of Raman spectroscopy for the diagnosis of neurodegenerative diseases and for forensic purposes,” adds professor Jürgen Popp, scientific director of Leibniz IPHT. “Through CeBAI, we want to further develop our optical technologies together. Our goal is to advance these biophotonic methods for various medical applications, such as the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, infectious diseases and cardiovascular diseases.”

The groundwork for CeBAI was laid in 2022, when both institutions agreed to establish the center to promote scientific exchange and create joint training and exchange opportunities for students and postdoctoral fellows.

From research to market

A key goal of CeBAI is to bridge the gap between research and commercial application. “We expect this collaboration to result not only in a large number of research projects, but also in several spin-off companies developing diagnostic and forensic innovations,” says Popp. The partnership is also expected to pave the way for clinical trials. The first joint research projects are expected to begin in early 2025, with IPHT providing the necessary technologies and equipment to be installed in the University at Albany’s laboratories.

Another priority of CeBAI is to promote scientific exchange between Jena and Albany and to support young researchers. Through CeBAI, young scientists will have the opportunity to learn from leading experts at both institutions. “This partnership strengthens our research teams and offers young researchers unique opportunities to grow in an international environment,” says Popp. To further foster international dialog and collaboration, joint workshops and conferences are planned for the coming year.