On October 25, world-renowned biophotonics expert, Prof. Juergen Popp, was invited to the "QIBEBT Distinguished Expert Forum" hosted by the Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology (QIBEBT) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. Prof. MA Bo chaired this event and presented Popp with the Lecture Award. This visit is part of the Sino-German Scientific Partnership Program funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China.

At the forum, Popp presented a lecture titled "Translational Biophotonics – Raman spectroscopy and AI a game changer !?" Popp elucidated the innovative technologies and potential applications of Raman spectroscopy in biophotonics, particularly its extensive use in clinical diagnostics. He emphasized the potential of multimodal methods combining Raman spectroscopy with other spectroscopic/optical technologies and how Raman can address today's medical challenges, such as early cancer diagnosis and personalized treatments.

After the presentation, Popp engaged in a deep discussion with researchers from QIBEBT. The audience showed keen interest in the clinical applications of Raman spectroscopy, especially how it can be combined with artificial intelligence to offer faster and more accurate diagnostic solutions.

Popp shared his vast experience in the field, illustrating the successful implementation of Raman spectroscopy techniques in patient sample detection. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between laboratories and clinics to ensure the technology's transition from basic research to concrete applications. Moreover, Popp introduced several innovative technologies and instruments his team has co-developed with other research institutes and companies.

Besides, Popp visited Single-Cell Center’s laboratory and expressed keen interest in self-developed single-cell analysis/sorting technology and equipment. He indicated a desire to collaborate with the center on Raman-activated cell sorting, Raman-based data analysis, and the standard process for Raman-based detection. Researchers from the center also conveyed their hopes to enhance communication between the two institutions, leverage each other's strengths, and establish a deep cooperation model. Together, they aim to overcome key technical challenges, achieve mutual benefits, and jointly promote technological innovation.

Prof. Juergen Popp is a renowned expert in biophotonic and optical health technology research. Holding a chair for Physical Chemistry at Friedrich-Schiller University Jena, he's the scientific director of the Leibniz Institute of Photonic Technology. With over 1000 peer-reviewed papers and numerous awards, his pioneering work in Raman spectroscopy and biophotonics has had significant global impact. （Text and Image By LIU Yang）