The NSF grant will support research and development of improved lens-free microscopes to observe aquatic microorganisms in their natural environments.
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Assistant Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering Ana Doblas recently received a $405,995 grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) for a project titled, "Improved lensless microscope using a multicolor multiplexed approach to provide high-throughput images with enhanced resolution and reduced noise."
The project focuses on improving an imaging technology called digital lensless holographic microscopy (DLHM). Unlike traditional microscopes that rely on lenses, DLHM captures images using light patterns and computer reconstruction, making it both compact and cost-effective. DLHM allows scientists to observe tiny, transparent organisms like plankton or bacteria without needing to stain or alter them. This means they can be studied in their natural environments, such as oceans, lakes, or other water bodies.
Current DLHM systems are limited by trade-offs between spatial resolution and field of view, as well as by high computational demands for image reconstruction. Doblas's project will develop an improved DLHM system that uses multiple light sources to capture larger, clearer images with less noise. By incorporating modern AI image-processing tools, the system will also be able to quickly locate and identify microscopic organisms in real time.
Beyond scientific discovery, the project includes education and outreach, such as workshops and programs introducing students to optics and environmental sensing.