Michael Tanner is an Associate Professor at the Institute of Photonics and Quantum Sciences at Heriot-Watt University. With a background in single photon detection and advanced photonic technologies, his work focuses on translating cutting-edge optical systems from laboratory research into real-world healthcare applications. He brings extensive expertise in time-resolved imaging, optical fibre sensing, and clinical photonics, alongside strong collaborative links with clinical research teams at the University of Edinburgh.
Background
Michael previously held positions at the Universities of Nottingham, Cambridge, and Glasgow before joining Heriot-Watt University. His research centres on applying advanced light-based technologies to healthcare challenges. He has developed enhanced optical fibre endoscopy and sensing systems, as well as time-resolved photon counting imaging and spectroscopy platforms.
His work is supported by funding from EPSRC, MRC, and Scottish Enterprise, spanning areas such as photodynamic therapy, women’s health, photon transport through tissue, and widefield clinical imaging systems. He is currently translating time-resolved imaging technologies into first-in-human studies at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh while advancing their commercial development.
Why His Work is Fundamental to MicroTex
Michael’s expertise in fibre-based sensing and time-resolved optical imaging is central to MicroTex’s ambition to enhance the monitoring of microdosing through ultra-small fibre probes. His experience in tracking photon behaviour through tissue and building clinically viable imaging systems directly supports the development of highly sensitive, minimally invasive sensing platforms.
By combining advanced photonic detection with a clear pathway to clinical translation, his work underpins MicroTex’s goal of delivering precise, real-time monitoring technologies that can transform how microdosing is measured and understood.