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Prof. Vasilis Ntziachristos is a Professor and Chair of Biological Imaging at the Technical University of Munich (TUM), leading the Institute of Biological and Medical Imaging at the Helmholtz Centre Munich. His research focuses on developing novel optical and optoacoustic imaging techniques for early disease detection, diagnostics, and theranostics. He holds a PhD in Bioengineering from the University of Pennsylvania and previously served as an Assistant Professor at Harvard University and Massachusetts General Hospital. Affiliations: TUM School of Medicine and Health, Helmholtz Munich, Institute of Biological and Medical Imaging. Key Research Themes: Non-invasive imaging methods, molecular imaging, optoacoustic technology, and clinical translation. His work bridges theoretical developments with clinical applications, including advancements in glucose monitoring, cancer imaging, and drug delivery systems. Notable awards include the Leibniz Prize (2013) and the World Molecular Imaging Society Gold Medal (2015). Labs/Teams: Imaging to Sensing I2S, Optoacoustic Mesoscopy, Fluorescence Imaging, and AI in Optoacoustics. Grants/Projects: Involvement in Horizon Europe initiatives and collaborations with TranslaTUM and Helmholtz Munich. Prof. Ntziachristos actively contributes to education via courses like 'Biological Imaging' and 'Introduction to Bioengineering', fostering the next generation of imaging scientists.

• Biomedical Imaging
• Optoacoustic Imaging
• Medical Diagnostics
• +3 more

Amirreza Aghakhani is a Assistant Professor and Director of the Institute for Biomaterials and Biomolecular Systems at the University of Stuttgart . His work focuses on Microrobotics and Biomedical Engineering , particularly in targeted drug delivery, microsurgery, detoxification, and diagnostics using micro- and nanofabrication and ultrasound technologies . Research Interests: Microrobotics, biomedical applications, wireless actuation, acoustic manipulation, lab-on-a-chip systems, and smart materials. Recent publications highlight advancements in piezoelectric energy harvesting , magnetic microrollers for therapy, and acoustic trapping of particles. His team explores adaptive microrobotic agents and biologically-inspired designs to bridge biomedical research with clinical applications.

• Microrobotics
• Biomedical Engineering
• Targeted Drug Delivery
• +7 more

Sven Hermann is a Senior Lecturer at the European Institute for Molecular Imaging (EIMI) within the University of Münster, leading the Preclinical Imaging Group. His research focuses on developing molecular imaging strategies for inflammation and infection, including PET, SPECT, fluorescence reflectance imaging, and optoacoustic imaging. Key targets include matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and alarmins (S100A8/S100A9), with applications in cardiovascular diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, and bacterial imaging. He participates in the Cells in Motion Cluster of Excellence and leads DFG-funded projects TRR332-C07 and CRC1450-C03, investigating immune regulation and imaging techniques. Affiliations: EIMI, University of Münster; Core Unit Pix (preclinical imaging). Research Themes: Bacterial imaging via maltodextrin transporters, MMP activity visualization in atherosclerosis, and S100A8/A9-driven immune modulation. His work integrates engineering and biology to translate imaging innovations into clinical applications, emphasizing multimodal approaches for disease monitoring.

• Molecular Imaging
• Immunology
• Infectious Diseases
• +3 more

Prof. Dr. Bettina V. Lotsch is Director of the Nanochemistry Department at the Max Planck Institute for Solid State Research (Stuttgart) and Honorary Professor at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München's Faculty for Chemistry and Pharmacy. She holds a prestigious Leibniz Prize (2025) and leads research in nanochemistry, materials science, and energy conversion technologies. Her multidisciplinary research focuses on developing multifunctional materials through solid-state and nanochemistry approaches, with emphasis on covalent organic frameworks, photonic nanostructures, and solid electrolytes for energy applications. Current projects explore solar batteries, electrocatalysis, and quantum materials. Prof. Lotsch has received numerous international honors including Baker Lectureship (Cornell), Materials Lectureship (Warwick), and EU-40 Materials Prize. She coordinates a large research team of >20 doctoral students and postdocs working on solid-state electrolytes, COF photocatalysis, and 2D material design. Education: PhD (summa cum laude) from LMU Munich, postdoctoral training at University of Toronto with G.A. Ozin, and visiting studies at University of Oxford. Research Leadership: Manages laboratories at both Max Planck Institute (Stuttgart) and LMU Munich (Chemistry Department) with specialized facilities for materials synthesis and characterization.

• Nanochemistry
• Solid-State Chemistry
• Materials Science
• +4 more

Prof. Dr. Gil Westmeyer is a Professor of Neurobiological Engineering at the Technical University of Munich (TUM), holding joint appointments at the TUM School of Natural Sciences and TUM School of Medicine and Health. He serves as Director of the Institute for Synthetic Biomedicine at Helmholtz-Zentrum München and leads the Chair of Neurobiological Engineering at TUM. His research program bridges molecular engineering, neuroimaging, and synthetic biology to develop next-generation tools for understanding and manipulating cellular networks. Westmeyer's educational background includes medical and philosophical studies in Munich, doctoral work on the molecular basis of Alzheimer's disease under Professor Christian Haass, clinical training at Harvard Medical School, and postdoctoral research with Professor Alan Jasanoff at MIT. His laboratory focuses on creating genetically encoded molecular sensors and actuators that enable non-invasive imaging and remote control of cellular processes across multiple scales. His research spans three primary domains: molecular sensors for multimodal imaging (from electron microscopy to whole-organism optoacoustics), molecular actuators for spatiotemporal control of cellular processes, and neurobehavioral imaging in freely behaving model organisms. The lab's work integrates synthetic biology, nanotechnology, and advanced imaging techniques to create tools that map dynamic signaling processes and manipulate cellular functions with unprecedented precision. Westmeyer's publication record demonstrates consistent innovation in molecular engineering, with recent work focusing on genetically encoded barcodes for electron microscopy, intron-encoded reporting systems, multiplexed optoacoustic imaging, and magnetically responsive cellular compartments. His publications in high-impact journals like Nature Methods, Cell, and Nature Biotechnology reflect the significance of his contributions to molecular imaging and engineering. ERC Proof of Concept 'inteRNAlizer' (2023) ERC Consolidator Grant 'EMcapsulins' (2019) ERC Starting Grant 'MagnetoGenetics' (2013) Helmholtz Young Investigator's Group (2011) Westmeyer actively mentors students and researchers through multiple teaching positions at TUM, including courses in biological chemistry, genetic machine development (iGEM), mammalian cell technology, and neuro-recording methods. His laboratory develops technologies with clear translational potential for future neurotherapies and regenerative medicine applications, particularly through the creation of imaging-controlled cellular interventions. The lab maintains strong collaborations across disciplines and institutions, with research that contributes to multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals related to health and wellbeing.

• Molecular Sensors
• Molecular Actuators
• Neuroimaging
• +7 more

Zhongqi Liu, M.Sc., is a researcher at the Chair of Thermodynamics (Prof. Dongsheng Wen) at the Technical University of Munich. His work focuses on integrating machine learning with experimental heat transfer analysis for subcooled flow boiling applications. University: Technical University of Munich Department: Chair of Thermodynamics Academic Rank: Researcher Research interests include Heat Transfer , Machine Learning , Subcooled Flow Boiling , and Energy Systems . His projects aim to enhance experimental data processing and critical heat flux prediction using data-driven methods, as seen in the Boiling Image Dataset . Recent publications span biomedical imaging, cancer phototherapy, and nanotechnology, highlighting interdisciplinary applications of machine learning and optical imaging. Notable work includes optoacoustic dyes , photodynamic therapy , and nanocarrier development .

• Heat Transfer
• Machine Learning
• Subcooled Flow Boiling
• +5 more

Prof. Dr. Martin Hofmann is Chairholder of Photonics and Terahertz Technology at Ruhr University Bochum (RUB), part of the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology. He leads research in optical materials, semiconductor lasers, and THz technology. His academic journey includes a doctorate (1994) and habilitation (2000) from Philipps University of Marburg, followed by roles as Scientific Assistant and Head of the Optoelectronic Devices and Materials Group before assuming his current position in 2007. Research Interests: Focuses on THz radiation sources , semiconductor laser characterization , and biomedical optical applications . His work bridges fundamental physics with applied technologies like compact THz systems and photonics for industrial and medical use. Publications: Recent work emphasizes THz generation using VCSELs, mode-locked lasers, and holographic measurement techniques. Key themes include coherent THz systems, dispersive optics, and miniaturized photonic components. Affiliations: Active in RUB’s Photonics and Terahertz Technology department, contributing to projects like TopING doctoral program and Spin-off promotions. Lab activities involve developing compact THz instruments and advanced laser systems.

• Photonics
• Terahertz Technology
• Semiconductor Lasers
• +3 more

Univ.-Prof. Dr. med. Michael Andreas Schäfers is a Full Professor of Nuclear Medicine and Director of the European Institute for Molecular Imaging (EIMI) and the Department of Nuclear Medicine at the University of Münster. He holds leadership roles, including Chairman of the German Universities Nuclear Medicine National Committee and membership in multiple medical societies. His expertise spans molecular imaging, translational research, and hybrid imaging techniques. Education includes a PhD from the University of Münster (1995) and habilitation (1999). Professional milestones include research at the MRC Cyclotron Unit (London, 1994–1995) and tenure-track professorship (1999–2007). His research focuses on multimodal molecular imaging, targeted imaging probes, cardiovascular inflammation, apoptosis, and hybrid imaging technologies. Key research interests include development of radiopharmaceuticals, PET/MRI integration, and imaging of inflammatory and oncological processes. Notable contributions include studies on FAP-directed radioligand therapy, S100A8/A9 alarmins, and glutamine's role in acute kidney injury. He has authored over 300 publications and holds patents on imaging agents. Scientific awards include recognition from Focus-Ärzteliste (2022), BurdaVerlag, and the Young Investigator Award (2004). He supervises the CiM-IMPRS Graduate Programme and contributes to clinical trials in oncology and radiopharmacology. His labs at EIMI and the Translational Imaging Group advance imaging technologies and preclinical/clinical collaborations.

• Molecular Imaging
• Nuclear Medicine
• Multimodal Imaging
• +7 more

Prof. Oliver Plettenburg holds a Professorship at the Institute of Organic Chemistry within the Faculty of Natural Sciences at Leibniz University Hannover. His primary research focuses on medicinal chemistry, drug discovery, and nanotechnology applications in biomedical contexts. He is affiliated with the Medicinal Chemistry Group and contributes to the Examination Board for Chemistry (B.Sc./M.Sc.). His research interests span drug design targeting metabolic disorders, cancer therapies, and molecular imaging technologies. Notable projects include developing optoacoustic imaging agents, peptide-based drugs for cachexia, and inhibitors of protein-protein interactions for parasitic diseases. His work frequently integrates organic synthesis with biological applications, such as enzyme electrode fabrication and nanoparticle therapy. Prof. Plettenburg has co-authored over 70 publications since 1999, including high-impact studies in Nature Metabolism , Journal of Medicinal Chemistry , and ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces . His lab collaborates extensively with institutions in Germany and internationally, focusing on translating chemical innovations into clinical applications. Awards and recognitions are not explicitly listed in the provided texts, though his sustained contributions to drug discovery research indicate significant academic impact. His group actively engages in interdisciplinary projects bridging organic chemistry, pharmacology, and biomedical engineering.

• Medicinal Chemistry
• Drug Discovery
• Organic Chemistry
• +3 more

Dr. rer. nat. Michael Kuhlmann is a leading researcher at the European Institute for Molecular Imaging (EIMI) in Münster, Germany, where he has worked since April 2008. His research focuses on developing and utilizing mouse models for cardiovascular, neurological, and tumor diseases , with extensive work in histology, microscopy, and advanced imaging techniques like PET, MRI, and optoacoustic tomography. His research spans atherosclerosis , stroke recovery , myocardial infarction , and infectious disease models . Publications from 2008–2023 highlight his expertise in in vivo imaging of inflammation, apoptosis, and biofilm development. He collaborates with the Cells-in-Motion Cluster of Excellence and has contributed to methods for carotid cuff implantation and nanoparticle drug delivery . Kuhlmann's work employs multimodal imaging to study plaque vulnerability in atherosclerosis post-stroke brain recovery cardiac metabolism in diabetes biofilm formation in vascular infections endothelial dysfunction metallic biomarker tracking His 15 most recent articles (2008–2023) demonstrate a consistent focus on preclinical disease modeling and therapeutic response imaging . He holds a Diploma in Biology (University of Münster, 1987–1994) and a PhD (Dr. rer. nat.) from the German Primate Center and University of Münster (2000). His career includes research roles at the University Hospital Münster in Nuclear Medicine (2007–2008) and Cardiology (2002–2007).

• Mouse models of human cardiovascular diseases
• Histology & Microscopy
• Molecular imaging
• +6 more

Dr. Anne Helfen is a Professor and Chair of the Translational Radiology research group at the University of Münster. She is affiliated with the Department of Radiology and the Translational Research Imaging Center (TRIC) at the University Hospital Münster. Her work focuses on developing imaging techniques for tumor and inflammatory disease detection, including MRI, optical (fluorescence reflectance imaging), and optoacoustic imaging. She leads the Helfen Lab, dedicated to translational radiology, bridging experimental and clinical applications through cell labeling strategies and disease-specific contrast agents. Research Interests: Her research emphasizes innovative imaging technologies to improve diagnostic accuracy. Key areas include: Development of contrast agents for MRI Optical and optoacoustic imaging techniques Biomarker discovery for oncology and inflammation Grants & Collaborations: Collaborates with the Medical Faculty of Münster and the University Hospital Münster. Active in the Multiscale Imaging Centre and participates in pilot projects under the Imaging Network. No specific grants or awards are listed, though her role as Chair suggests significant institutional support. Labs/Teams: Leads the Helfen Lab: Translational Radiology, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches to translational medicine.

• Radiology
• Medical Imaging
• Oncology
• +3 more

Dr. Oliver Griesbeck is a Research Group Leader heading the 'Tools for Bio-Imaging' department at the Max Planck Institute for Biological Intelligence (formerly Max Planck Institute of Neurobiology) since 2005. As a regular member of the MCN and full member of GSN, his work focuses on developing innovative protein-based tools for neuroscience research, particularly fluorescent protein biosensors for monitoring neuronal activity and biochemistry. His research group combines biophysical and structural studies with molecular biology techniques to create advanced imaging probes used in physiological settings. PhD in Neurobiology, Max Planck Institute for Psychiatry (1997) Research Associate, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, UC San Diego (1997-2001) Assistant, Max Planck Institute of Neurobiology (2001-2005) W2 Research Group Leader, Max Planck Institute (2005-present) Dr. Griesbeck's research centers on protein engineering for neuroscience applications, with particular expertise in calcium imaging, GFP variants, and biosensor development. His work bridges biophysics, molecular engineering, and neurobiology to create tools that enable precise monitoring of neuronal activity across space and time. The group's research has significantly contributed to the development of genetically encoded calcium indicators (GECIs) and other fluorescent protein-based sensors that have become standard tools in neuroscience laboratories worldwide. Analysis of Dr. Griesbeck's publication record reveals a consistent focus on developing and refining protein-based imaging tools, with recent work expanding into optoacoustic imaging platforms, interstitial calcium sensors, and applications in diverse biological systems from Drosophila vision to human microglia. His research demonstrates a progression from fundamental protein engineering to increasingly sophisticated applications in complex physiological systems, reflecting the growing capabilities of bio-imaging technologies in neuroscience. Dr. Griesbeck mentors graduate students and postdoctoral researchers in protein engineering, CRISPR technology, molecular biology, and neuroscience tool development. His lab actively collaborates with other neuroscience researchers who utilize the biosensors developed in his group, which are available through Addgene for broader scientific use. The Tools for Bio-Imaging group maintains a state-of-the-art research environment focused on protein engineering and biosensor development, with expertise spanning molecular biology, protein design, high-throughput screening, and physiological validation of imaging tools. The group's work supports the broader neuroscience community by providing critical tools for understanding brain function at cellular and circuit levels.

• Directed Evolution
• GFP
• Imaging
• +7 more

PD Dr. Lara Schlaffke is a senior researcher at the Ruhr University Bochum 's Medical Faculty, leading the Neuroimaging Working Group at Bergmannsheil University Hospital. Her career bridges neuroscience and clinical neurology through advanced MRI techniques. Habilitation in Experimental Neurology (2022) Head of Quantitative Muscle Imaging Group (2020–present) Postdoctoral research at University Medical Center Utrecht (2016–2018) Her research focuses on quantitative MRI biomarkers for rare neuromuscular diseases, leveraging translational models to link imaging with histology. Key areas include non-invasive disease monitoring, treatment evaluation (e.g., gene therapies), and diagnosis facilitation through Muscle microstructure analysis Disease progression dynamics DTI/vBm for brain-muscle interaction Recent publications (2013–2024) demonstrate expertise in Neuroimaging , with 2024 works covering optoacoustic imaging in Pompe disease and 2023 articles on post-COVID-19 muscle abnormalities. Earlier studies explore brain plasticity in drummers (2020), multicenter MRI standardization (2019), and tactile learning mechanisms (2014). Technical specializations include Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) Voxel-Based Morphometry (VBM) Machine learning for MRI segmentation

• Neuroimaging
• Quantitative MRI
• Neuromuscular Diseases
• +3 more

Angelos Karlas is a dual-qualified Medical Doctor and Electrical and Computer Engineer at the Technical University of Munich (TUM), holding advanced degrees including MD, Dipl-Ing (MEng), MSc, MRes, DIC, and Dr. rer. nat. His primary institutional affiliations span three critical research hubs: the Chair of Biological Imaging (HMGU) under Prof. Ntziachristos, the Chair of Informatics Applications in Medicine under Prof. Navab, and the Clinic and Polyclinic for Vascular and Endovascular Surgery under Prof. Branzan. This tripartite engagement underscores his interdisciplinary integration of engineering, computer science, and clinical medicine. His educational background reflects exceptional versatility: medical training combined with rigorous engineering credentials (Dipl-Ing from Imperial College London equivalent), advanced computational degrees (MSc, MRes), and a natural sciences doctorate (Dr. rer. nat.). This foundation enables his cross-domain research bridging surgical practice, imaging physics, and AI development. Karlas' research focuses on revolutionizing medical diagnostics through novel imaging-AI fusion . Core interests include: Optoacoustic tomography for vascular and metabolic disease quantification AI-driven ultrasound enhancement (anomaly detection, needle guidance, resolution improvement) Non-invasive diabetes and brown adipose tissue monitoring Surgical robotics with human-robot communication optimization Vascular surgery outcomes analysis and quality assurance His work consistently targets clinical translation—transforming physics-based imaging into actionable diagnostic tools while addressing real-world constraints like instrument visibility and computational efficiency. Analysis of his 50+ publications (2010-2025) reveals three dominant trajectories: (1) Imaging physics innovation (MSOT/ultrasound hardware and reconstruction), (2) AI-medical integration (diffusion models, GANs for medical image enhancement), and (3) Clinical vascular/diabetes applications . Recent work (2023-2025) increasingly emphasizes explainable AI and real-time surgical assistance, with strong German/EU clinical collaboration networks evident in multi-center studies. His research operates at the intersection of TUM's Biological Imaging chair (developing optoacoustic technologies), Informatics Applications group (AI algorithm design), and Vascular Surgery clinic (clinical validation). This triad enables rapid prototyping—from physics simulations to bedside implementation—particularly evident in robotic ultrasound systems and metabolic imaging studies. Current projects focus on circadian heart failure monitoring, BAT activation diagnostics, and AI-enhanced vascular interventions.

• Medical Imaging
• Optoacoustic Tomography
• Ultrasound AI
• +4 more

Prof. Miguel Angel Pleitez Rafael is a Professor at the Technical University of Munich (TUM), affiliated with the TUM School of Medicine and Health . His research focuses on translational optoacoustics, bridging advanced imaging technologies with clinical applications. Education details are not explicitly provided in the text, but his academic role suggests a terminal degree in a related field such as biomedical engineering or physics. His work in translational optoacoustics emphasizes innovation in medical diagnostics and therapeutic monitoring. No specific grants, awards, or publications are listed here, but his affiliation with TUM’s School of Medicine and Health indicates involvement in interdisciplinary healthcare research.

• Translational Optoacoustics
• Biomedical Engineering
• Medical Imaging
• +1 more