Analysis of Fluorescence Signals
Major
Physics
Submission Type
Poster
Area of Study or Work
Physics
Expected Graduation Date
2023
Location
CNS Atrium, Easel 25
Start Date
4-15-2023 9:00 AM
End Date
4-15-2023 10:15 AM
Abstract
The use of fluorescence signals is common in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. We aim to explore a variety of analytical and experimental methods, assessing their applicability to a range of contexts. For example, we have purchased integrated chips that contain, say, a thousand Single-Photon-Avalanche-Diodes (SPAD) detectors, each with 100-pico-second time resolution, which seems likely to offer access to low-level signals, while also providing extraordinary temporal resolution, on the detection side of an experiment. In order to take advantage of such capabilities, we would also need to push the temporal resolution of the fluorescence excitation source. Towards that end, we have begun learning to use Acousto-Optic Modulators (AOMs), which allow fast "on-off" modulation of an otherwise steady laser beam: by setting up a sound wave on the surface of a transparent crystal, a diffraction grating is created. If the light you are using corresponds to the first-order diffraction spot, it can be very rapidly turned on or off by changing the sound signal shaking the crystal. Such approaches may enable studies of the lifetime of fluorescence in various materials. We will also explore other kinds of fluorescence signal analysis, aiming to think about how to analyze the data contained within biological microscope images and/or to think about experimental approaches that might enhance local research opportunities.
Analysis of Fluorescence Signals
CNS Atrium, Easel 25
The use of fluorescence signals is common in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. We aim to explore a variety of analytical and experimental methods, assessing their applicability to a range of contexts. For example, we have purchased integrated chips that contain, say, a thousand Single-Photon-Avalanche-Diodes (SPAD) detectors, each with 100-pico-second time resolution, which seems likely to offer access to low-level signals, while also providing extraordinary temporal resolution, on the detection side of an experiment. In order to take advantage of such capabilities, we would also need to push the temporal resolution of the fluorescence excitation source. Towards that end, we have begun learning to use Acousto-Optic Modulators (AOMs), which allow fast "on-off" modulation of an otherwise steady laser beam: by setting up a sound wave on the surface of a transparent crystal, a diffraction grating is created. If the light you are using corresponds to the first-order diffraction spot, it can be very rapidly turned on or off by changing the sound signal shaking the crystal. Such approaches may enable studies of the lifetime of fluorescence in various materials. We will also explore other kinds of fluorescence signal analysis, aiming to think about how to analyze the data contained within biological microscope images and/or to think about experimental approaches that might enhance local research opportunities.