The Biophotonics, Advanced Imaging, and Sensing for Human Health (BISH) program supports innovative research of biophotonic, imaging, and sensing technologies for applications in human health.Examples of topics are given below:
-Low Coherence Sensing at the Nanoscale – Low coherence enhanced backscattering (LEBS), n-dimensional elastic light scattering, and angle- resolved low coherence interferometry for early cancer detection (dysplasia).
-Macromolecule Markers – Innovative methods for labeling of macromolecules, new compositions of matter/methods of fabrication of multi-color probes such as might be used for in-vitro marking and detection of specific pathological cells and or pathogens.
-Multi-probe Molecular Manipulations – New optical approaches that permit specific molecular action on cells which conjointly bind two or more different probes with specificity for different macromolecular markers.
-Neuro-photonics – Development of new biocompatible detection technologies that could serve as massively parallel interfaces for communicating with networks of cells such as brain tissue slices. Studies of photon activation of neurons at the interface of nanomaterials attached to cells.
-Biomimetic and Miniaturized Devices – Innovative miniaturized optical tools or devices for the interrogation and manipulation or creation of specific reactions in complex cell or organ culture.
-Photon-cell Interactions – Fundamental studies of novel photonic properties of nanoparticles and optical reporters and their interaction with cells and their internal organelles.
U.S. Army Natick Soldier Research, Development and
Engineering Center Broad Agency announcement: biotechnology program
Agency:Natick
Deadline:Proposals may be submitted at any time after the concept paper has been approved and up until the BAA closing date of 31 March 2011
This Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) is intended to fulfill requirements for scientific study and experimentation directed toward advancing state-of the-art technologies, and/or increasing knowledge and understanding as a means of eliminating current technology barriers.
Biological processes and systems have evolved efficient responses to pressures in the environment. The science of biotechnology identifies those processes and systems which can be manipulated for enhancement of current technologies, or development of new ones.The needs of the Warfighter in the field - enhanced protection from chemical and biological agents, lightweight clothing and gear, real-time detection and identification of enemy agents, and energy creation and storage, can be served by research in this growing field.
Scientific and Technical Areas of Interest:
A comparison of current capabilities versus Warfighter needs leads to interest in the following major areas of scientific knowledge and technological capabilities:
a.Novel biologically-based biocides for the generation of antimicrobial materials with non-leaching killing action
b.Experimentation and theoretical research into the structural interactions and mode-of action of peptides at interfaces
c.Development and enhancement of sensor technologies for chemicals and biological materials
d.Environmentally benign processes (i.e. low temperature and pressure, aqueous, pH 7) for production of materials
e.Novel approaches to stabilizing enzymes and natural dyes for long-term use in a broad range of environments
f.Real-time generation of biofuels from renewable resources
g.Novel environmentally-friendly FR materials from renewable biological sources
h.Development of improved antimicrobial and antisporal test methods
Communication with a Technical POC prior to submission of a formal proposal is essential.Technical POCs:
