Global Biophotonics Imaging Hub

About the Hub

The Global Biophotonics Imaging Hub is an international research initiative jointly established by the Life-omics Research Division and the Life and Medical Photonics Division at the Institute for Transdisciplinary Research Initiatives (OTRI), The University of Osaka. By bringing together two divisions with complementary expertise—advanced life science measurement and cutting-edge photonics—we aim to create a foundation that integrates technology, biology, and medicine.

Our mission is to contribute to the advancement of science worldwide by fostering a world-class environment for biophotonics imaging at The University of Osaka, where people, knowledge, and cutting-edge technologies converge. The Hub serves not only as a center of excellence for developing state-of-the-art imaging technologies, but also as a platform for their application in basic biology, medical research, and industrial innovation.

Through this initiative, we seek to:
• Accelerate international collaboration by hosting visiting researchers, joint projects, and global research networks.
• Provide access to state-of-the-art microscopy and imaging facilities, including Raman spectroscopy, super-resolution microscopy, cryo-optical microscopy, and multiphoton imaging systems.
• Foster interdisciplinary innovation by linking researchers in photonics, life sciences, and medicine, encouraging cross-cutting discoveries and technologies.
• Serve as a training ground for the next generation of scientists, offering opportunities for young researchers and students to engage in global research activities.

State-of-the-Art Techniques

The Hub hosts advanced microscopy and photonics imaging platforms, enabling researchers to explore life at unprecedented resolution and depth:

Raman Imaging

High-sensitivity Raman spectroscopy and imaging systems for label-free molecular analysis and Raman tag imaging.

Super-Resolution Microscopy

Advanced structured illumination microscopy (SPA-SIM) for visualizing nanoscale biological structures.

Cryo-Optical Microscopy

Unique systems combining cryogenic sample preservation with high-resolution optical imaging.

Multiphoton and Deep Tissue Imaging

Powerful multiphoton systems for probing living tissues and immune dynamics.

International Partners

We collaborate with leading researchers and institutions worldwide, expanding the frontiers of biophotonics and imaging science:

Johns Hopkins University

Prof. Ishan Barman – Raman spectroscopy and molecular sensing for medical applications.

Oxford University

Prof. Martin Booth – Adaptive optics and advanced imaging optics.

Marseille Immunology Research Center

Prof. Marc Bajenoff – Immune system dynamics with multiphoton imaging.

University of Bonn

Prof. Elvira Mass – Lineage tracing of immune cells using imaging technologies.

Paris Cité University

Dr. Stephanie Devineau – Raman imaging for environmental and microbial analysis.

King’s College London

Prof. Madeline Parsons – Live-cell imaging of adhesion and migration processes.

Call for Collaboration

The Hub actively welcomes new collaborators. We are seeking researchers and institutions interested in advancing biophotonics imaging, from fundamental science to medical and industrial applications.

We offer technical support for visiting researchers, joint projects, and access to our advanced imaging facilities. Together, we can drive innovation and create impactful outcomes for science, healthcare, and society.

Contact Katsumasa Fujita (Raman, Super resolution, Cryo) or Masaru Ishii (Tissue Imaging).