Grant: Alliance Grants

The project is devoted to development of nano-micro optical fiber needle endoscope for small invasive imaging and therapy. Prof. Douplik's lab (Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU); formerly Ryerson University) will develop a novel technology including both hardware and software for controlled thermal-mechanical tapering/thinning of optical fibers to nano-micro size lightguides. This innovative technology will have applications for both medical diagnostics and laser ablation. Prof. Chormaic's group (Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology, OIST, Japan) will contribute developing diagnostic sensors based on the nano-micro size optical fibers including multi-core imaging scopes. Prof. Kakihana's group (Kagoshima University, Japan) will contribute testing and developing applications for novel medical-theranostic tools based on nano-micro optical fibers. Intellectual property in forms of inventions, patents and publications are expected as a deliverable of such cooperation. The project aims to provide unique training opportunities for HQP, with tangible benefits for the Canadian healthcare system.