This project will leverage Solus Technologies recent advances in semiconductor disk laser (SDL) technology to investigate the suitability of this technology for multiphoton microscopy systems. Current multiphoton spectroscopy systems require Ti:Sapphire based laser sources which are expensive, cumbersome and often require regular alignment to maintain the system in working conditions. The SDL has the potential to address these shortcomings; however, the pulse duration required by the applications is not yet met by current SDL systems. This project will therefore investigate the feasibility to deploy pulse compression techniques to shorten the pulses of the SDLs from the picosecond to the femtosecond regime. This will enable Solus to enter a multi-billion market with the potential of generating revenues of the order of £4M per annum.

Biomedical research is a large high value market and fluorescence microscopy are some of the most common and powerful tools used. Fluorescence imaging techniques require the region to be studied to be labelled with a dye, this often disrupts cell function and any typically releases toxins. In contrast Coherent anti-Stokes Raman Scattering (CARS) microscopy enables the researcher to harness the high 3D resolution capability of nonlinear microscopy while avoiding the photo-toxicity issue. In addition it can provide molecule specific information. CARS has found diverse applications in biology, and it is employed in DNA analysis and cancer detection. The primary aim of the study is to look at the feasibility of using two pulsed SDL lasers operating at dissimilar wavelengths for use in a CARS microscope.

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