CAT Collaborations with Non-Profit Entities

The CAT works collaboratively with non-profit entities to advance its scientific and economic development goals.

Two examples of this type of collaborations are:

• Compact Photonic Explorers
• Near Infrared Welding of Ocular Tissue

Compact Photonic Explorers
The City University of New York, in partnership with six other universities, has embarked upon an innovative, multidisciplinary research project to develop a variety of smart, compact, remote-controlled mobile photonic sensing devices. Called “Compact Photonic Explorers,” (CPE), these devices can have a range of diagnostic applications, including remote health monitoring, bacterial detection, cancer screening, chemical sensing and industrial and military surveillance. This project combines miniaturized techniques for emitting, detecting and filtering light, impacting diverse industries and disciplines by spinning off new microscale components and technologies. The initial focus is in the biomedical arena, where we are developing a “photonic pill” that would detect cancer and monitor body functions in living subjects. Future CPEs will detect biological and chemical hazards, such as bacteria and pollutants, and monitor the "health" of compact structures and devices.

Near Infrared Welding of Ocular Tissue
The CAT has worked with the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary (NYEEI) to investigate the use of near infrared lasers in welding of ocular (eye) tissue. Optimal laser parameters for welding and minimalization of collateral damage were investigated. Funding for this project was provided by NYEEI.