Leibniz School of Optics & Photonics The Research School News
Researchers present their skin cancer scanner at the IdeenExpo

Researchers present their skin cancer scanner at the IdeenExpo

 Three men stand on a large white stage and talk to each other.  Three men stand on a large white stage and talk to each other.  Three men stand on a large white stage and talk to each other.
© Sonja Smalian/PhoenixD
Bernhard Roth (left) and Uwe Morgner (centre) are interviewed about their research by presenter Ralf Schmitt on stage seven at the IdeenExpo.
A man explains a black device connected to a computer screen to two girls. In the background is a screen with a black and white image. A man explains a black device connected to a computer screen to two girls. In the background is a screen with a black and white image. A man explains a black device connected to a computer screen to two girls. In the background is a screen with a black and white image.
© Sonja Smalian/PhoenixD
PhD student Anatoly Fedorov Kukk (centre) explains his research project, a skin cancer scanner, to two young visitors at the IdeenExpo. In the background on the large screen, the different layers of skin can be seen as depicted by the scanner.

What do scientists at Leibniz University Hannover work on all day? Three researchers answered this question live on Wednesday, 12 June 2024, at 10:30 a.m. on Stage Seven in Hall 7, when Anatoly Fedorov Kukk, Bernhard Roth and PhoenixD spokesperson Uwe Morgener showed how the skin cancer scanner they have developed works. They want to use the device to detect dangerous skin changes faster and earlier than before to save more people from the deadly cancer disease. Many young visitors took the chance and tested the painless and fast examination method.

The scientists use light-based technologies for their skin cancer scanners. Bernhard Roth and his team have just been honoured with the Helmholtz Prize for this development. These so-called optical technologies power many different applications. They are used, for example, to stream films via fibre optics. In many areas, they make our everyday digital lives possible.

Optics are not only used in communication and medical technology. The automotive industry also uses optical signal processing sensors to enable autonomous driving. The advantage is that optical technologies can be used to transmit large amounts of data at the speed of light. 

Leibniz University Hannover offers the first bachelor's degree programme in 'Optical Technologies: Lasers and Photonics' at a university. The programme prepares young people for a career in this future-oriented field across all industries.

At the IdeenExpo, the three scientists will happily answer questions from pupils, teachers and parents about the programme's content. The degree programme should be particularly suitable for young people interested in technology who enjoy working on innovative applications and solutions. Students will learn physical, mathematical and chemical foundations with problem-solving skills typical of engineering. With their degree, graduates can go straight into a career or start a Master's programme in Optical Technologies at Leibniz University.

On Thursdays, from 11:30 to 12:30, Manmeet Singh answers all questions about studying Optical Technologies at Leibniz University Hannover in person (Im Moore 11B, 30167 Hannover, Building 1139, Room 121 on the first floor) or via the Webex online conference. You can also contact him by phone or e-mail at opticaltechnologies@maschinenbau.uni-hannover.de.