Biophotonics

Biophotonics involves the study of molecular mechanisms, function and structure in biological organisms and the examination of tissue at the macro and micro level to detect, diagnose and treat disease. Teachers will learn how scientists integrate physics, chemistry, biology, mathematics, and engineering into the biophotonics research process, providing an excellent avenue for introducing students to the interdisciplinary nature of most scientific research.

Level-I provides an overview of the field of biophotonics with instruction on basic tools providing teachers experience in conducting research by generating and harnessing light (photons) to image, detect and manipulate biological materials. The Biophotonics Research Academy Levels I is held at University of California Davis through the Center for Biophotonics Science and Technology (CBST). Register for this program on the CBST web site. Registration fee $15.

Level-II provides advanced instruction in the field of biophotonics with instruction on basic tools providing teachers experience in conducting research by generating and harnessing light (photons) to image, detect and manipulate biological materials. Activities include computer simulation of light/matter interaction, optical methods of biodetection, microscopy, and optics. The Biophotonics Research Academy Level 2 is held at University of California Davis through the Center for Biophotonics Science and Technology (CBST). Register for these programs on the CBST web site. Register for this program on the CBST web site. Registration fee $15.

Level-III program prepares teachers to work as a member of a research team. Participants develop their understanding of:

• The nature of science,
• Research strategies and methods,
• Technical writing to communicate research findings.

The Biophotonics Research Academy Level III is held at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory.  Register on this web site to attend Biophotonics Level III. Registration fee $20. The registration fee provides hospitality for workshop participants.

Level-IVThe mentored research internship provides teachers and opportunity to contribute as a member of a research team. Each teacher receives a $4000 stipend when they complete a 8-week internship.  This internship is offered at University of California Davis through the Center for Biophotonics Science and Technology (CBST). Schedule Level 4 through Jodie Galosy of CBST.