Decoding the Invisible: Tracking Particles Beyond the Visible Spectrum

Excited to share my summer research journey with the Laidlaw Scholarship Programme! I explored label-free optical techniques to study biomolecular interactions and developed a robust calibration for dynamic molecular behavior. Here’s a glimpse of my learnings and goals.
Like

Share this post

Choose a social network to share with, or copy the URL to share elsewhere

This is a representation of how your post may appear on social media. The actual post will vary between social networks

Experience Overview

Over the course of this project, I worked on a cutting-edge imaging method combined with a custom computational tracking algorithm to capture real-time biomolecular events. This required meticulous surface preparation and the strategic use of intermediary agents to ensure a stable environment for our target molecules. One of the most demanding aspects was fine-tuning the algorithm to balance high-precision data collection with practical lab constraints—an iterative process that sharpened my time management and problem-solving skills.

Key Outcomes and Significance
By employing a label-free approach, we were able to streamline sample preparation and observe molecular behavior in a more natural state. This is especially relevant for biomedical contexts, where subtle changes in molecular properties can have major implications for disease diagnosis and treatment. The method we are developing offers a high-throughput, accessible way to analyse such changes—one that could be adapted to a wide range of bimolecular systems in future research.

Personal Growth and Reflections
On a personal level, this project reinforced the importance of rigorous documentation and reproducible methods. Encountering and overcoming technical hurdles taught me to view setbacks as opportunities to refine both the technique and my own approach. I also discovered just how much I thrive in collaborative, team-oriented environments, where open dialogue with colleagues and mentors fosters rapid learning and innovation. This realisation will guide my future career choices, as I look for roles that combine scientific discovery with dynamic, interdisciplinary teamwork.

Looking Ahead
While the specifics of the research remain confidential, I’m proud of the progress we’ve made in refining advanced biomolecular analysis techniques. I look forward to applying the insights and skills gained—whether in future academic collaborations, industry settings, or new interdisciplinary projects. Above all, I’m grateful for the mentorship and support from my Supervisor  ,Dr Ralf Richter,   that made this transformative experience possible, and I’m excited to see how this work continues to evolve in the hands of future researchers.

Please sign in

If you are a registered user on Laidlaw Scholars Network, please sign in