We develop near-infrared II (NIR-II/SWIR) fluorophores optimized for high-contrast, real-time visualization of critical anatomical structures (e.g., nerves, vessels) during surgical procedures. These probes can enhance intraoperative tissue structure identification, minimize postoperative complications and improve surgical outcomes.

We design small-molecule probes that selectively illuminate tumor margins in head and neck as well as pancreatic cancers. By coupling with computational modeling and simulation, these probes can provide superior contrast between healthy and diseased tissues, facilitating complete tumor resection and enhancing patient prognosis and survival.

We engineer next-generation fluorophores and bioconjugation technologies tailored specifically for quantitative imaging platforms, including highly multiplexed cyclic immunofluorescence (cyCIF). By integrating fluorophore chemistry with protein engineering, these fluorophores can offer tunable brightness, minimal nonspecific binding and excellent compatibility with spatial proteomic workflows, enabling comprehensive tumor characterization.

We are building a noninvasive retinal fluorescence imaging platform to detect Alzheimer’s disease biomarkers in the eye. The project integrates probe chemistry, optical system design (wide-field and scanning retinal imaging), and clinical validation pathways to support first-in-human feasibility testing. Population-scale retinal screening could enable earlier identification of at-risk individuals for confirmatory testing with plasma biomarkers or PET.