Over the past decade, the use of X-ray microscopy has increased in the world of research. In contrast to standard light and electron microscopy, X-ray microscopy can be used to generate 3D images. The method, which is used in medical research, makes it possible to produce 3D images of human tissue – something that can make it easier to study cells in detail and how they relate to each other. Martin Bech has now been granted SEK 20 million for his project “Advanced X-ray Energy-sensitive Microscopy for Virtual Histology”, which aims to create a modern laboratory for X-ray microscopy in Lund.
“It feels great. We can now update our existing lab by purchasing new x-ray optics and a new detector and launch several new studies,” says Martin Bech.
Previously, Martin Bech and his colleagues have conducted their research projects at synchrotron radiation facilities in Europe. However, the process involves long waiting times and short radiation sessions. Thanks to the grant, it will be possible to carry out similar investigations, within several disciplines, in Lund.
“In one of the projects I am collaborating with Karin Tran Lundmark, who is involved in cardiopulmonary research and examines how blood vessels are connected to lung tissue,” he says.
The ability to generate high-contrast 3D images gives the researchers far more detailed knowledge about tissue at the micro level. This could be used for numerous purposes including the development of new medicines and treatments for diseases.
“X-ray microscopy on soft tissue has advanced on a broad front in recent years. Today, there are many medical researchers, chemists and biologists at synchrotron facilities, not just physicists and materials researchers, which was previously the case,” says Martin Bech.
Another researcher from Lund University, Ville Maisi, senior lecturer in solid state physics at Lund University’s Faculty of Engineering (LTH), has received SEK 28 million for his project “Microwave Quantum Photonics for Quantum Technology and Fundamental Physics”.
Text: Johan Joelsson.
More about the grant
This year, 321 researchers will receive ERC Consolidator Grants. Twelve researchers will conduct their projects at Swedish higher education institutions. The grant, which is funded by the EU programme Horizon Europe, is intended for researchers who completed their doctoral degrees 7-12 years ago. The ERC awards grants totalling EUR 657 million.