This project, in collaboration with Renishaw Plc, aims to investigate a newly developed technique to improve the capabilities of Raman imaging. Raman scattering is a vibrational spectroscopy technique that can yield specific molecular information from samples, such as biological tissues. The advantages of the technique and the wealth of information that can be obtained from Raman scattering have led to its application in a variety of fields including medical diagnostics. Raman spectra can be collected at various points across a sample, enabling images to be obtained based on the chemical composition and molecular structure. Raman imaging has been applied for studying cell and tissue samples for the characterisation of molecular changes due to the presence of disease, or for monitoring uptake and effects of drugs. Two main disadvantages of Raman scattering are the inherently weak signals and the interference from background fluorescence of samples. Raman scattering can be enhanced by incorporation of a chromophore to produce a resonance effect; however, this also requires careful consideration to avoid the spectrum being swamped by fluorescence.

The focus of this project is to take advantage of a new technology that Renishaw has developed to suppress sample fluorescence and investigate potential application in the imaging of biological samples.  This technology allows Raman imaging of samples that were previously impractical or even impossible to measure.  Within the research group, there are several areas where this technology can be applied, including imaging tissue biopsies for cancer diagnosis and studying drug molecules for monitoring cellular uptake. 

Throughout the project, the student will have access to the newly developed instrumentation and will compare the results to data acquired using conventional methods. This will help Renishaw understand the benefits and limitations of this technology and to assess how widely it can be applied to different application areas, while producing high level academic results that can be used as proof to customers interested in the technology.  The project will also include an industrial placement at Renishaw’s New Mills site and continual engagement with industrial supervisors.