Institute of PhotonicsNeurophotonics
The Neurophotonics team develops optoelectronic devices to interface with neural systems in an effort to understand aspects of neural processing. We collaborate closely with leading neuroscientists and develop high-end technology using advanced semiconductor processing techniques.
Current research focuses on the following:
- Technologies for optogenetic control of neural circuits to further our understanding of brain function (see the EU-funded DEEPER consortium) and
- Optoelectronic devices that function as prosthetic devices to restore lost function – for example, our work on retinal prosthetics with Stanford University and our involvement in the EU-funded HearLight project.
The research is underpinned by a 10-year, £2.8M award from the Royal Academy of Engineering through their Chair in Emerging Technologies scheme.
We have a close collaboration with Dr Shuzo Sakata’s neuroscience team, where together we have formed an emerging neurotechnology effort at Strathclyde, that brings together physicists, engineers and neuroscientists to develop new technologies aimed at furthering our understanding of the brain.
Our Research
Optoelectronic Neural Probes
Optogenetics is a technique that allows specific populations of neurons in the brain to be controlled through light. The combination of genetics and photonics allows precise studies of neural circuit function. We develop optoelectronic technologies that allow neuroscientists to examine the functional properties of these genetically targeted populations of cells.
Retinal Prosthesis
We're involved in the development of a prosthesis system to restore sight to patients with degenerative retinal diseases.
Auditory Cortical Prosthesis
Our aim is to develop a device that can boost precision in auditory rehabilitation strategies for a broad range of deafness conditions. We are investigating a radically new approach that targets the brain rather than the ear. It combines bioelectronics and optogenetics technologies to apply precise stimulation patterns in the auditory cortex
Deep Brain Photonic Tools
The DEEPER project clusters technological, neuroscientific and clinical experts together with innovative companies to develop photonic tools for imaging and manipulating neuronal activity in deep brain regions.
The Utah Optrode Array
The Utah optrode array allows for precise multi-site light delivery in deep cortical layers. The device consists of an array of 100 glass microneedles paired with a µLED array and is capable of optogenetically exciting thousands of neurons in vivo in spatio-temporal patterns.
HearLight
Critical Conversations
Neurotechnology Regulation
Latest Paper
10 November 2022
New publication detailing the performance of our highest resolution subretinal implant that functions as an array of “electronic photoreceptors”.
Who we work with
Academic Collaborators
University of Strathclyde
Stanford University
The University of Utah
West Virginia University
AGH University, Krakow
International Consortia
DEEPER project (Deep Brain Photonic Tools for Cell-Type Specific Targeting of Neural Diseases) clusters technological, neuroscientific and clinical experts together with innovative start-ups and leading companies with the aim of developing photonic tools for imaging and manipulating the neuronal activity in deep brain regions.
Coordinated by Professor Massimo De Vittorio
HearLight aims to develop new technologies to restore auditory perception to patients with impaired hearing.
Coordinated by Professor Brice Bathellier