For his contributions and pioneering research achievements in the field of optical health technologies and biophotonics, Prof. Dr. Jürgen Popp has been awarded the Charles Mann Award by FACSS. FACSS recognizes Popp’s contributions in the field of Raman spectroscopic technologies and methods, ranging from basic research to the development of innovative Raman-based instruments. With the award, the jury particularly highlights Popp’s commitment and thus the guiding principle of Leibniz IPHT „from Ideas to Instruments“: to further develop successful ideas and to translate research results into applicable systems. Prof. Dr. Jürgen Popp has been scientific director at Leibniz IPHT since 2006 and director of the Institute of Physical Chemistry at Friedrich Schiller University Jena since 2002.
As one of the most powerful analytical methods, Raman spectroscopy offers enormous potential for chemical, physical, life science and medical issues as well as for environmental, pharmaceutical and food analysis: With its help, biological samples can be precisely characterized via the unique molecular fingerprint. Combined with clever analysis methods based on artificial intelligence, the Raman spectroscopic data obtained can be automatically evaluated and thus effectively and efficiently support rapid diagnostics.
A particular focus of Popp’s work is Raman spectroscopic methods for applications in oncology and infection diagnostics. In tumor diagnostics, for example, Raman spectroscopic technologies can help doctors in the future to assess whether pathological tissue has been completely removed and no tumor cells remain during surgical tumor removal.
But also in infection diagnostics, Raman spectroscopy-based tools can make decisive contributions in the identification of pathogens as well as the understanding of interactions with drugs.
Prof. Dr. Jürgen Popp received the award at the International Conference for Analytical Chemistry, SciX 2023, in Sparks, USA: „Receiving the Charles Mann Award is a wonderful confirmation and recognition of our work, which is the result of the collaboration of a highly committed and interdisciplinary team. By being able to detect and diagnose diseases faster and better through changes in biochemical compositions, valuable time can be gained – time in which drug therapies can be initiated immediately and in a targeted manner, thus significantly improving the chances of healing and survival for affected patients. Being able to make a valuable contribution to modern healthcare with our work, from which we can all benefit in the future, motivates me anew every day,“ explains the award winner.
About the Charles Mann Award
The Charles Mann Award for Applied Raman Spectroscopy has been awarded by FACSS since 2002. The award is named after Professor Charles Mann, who made significant contributions to the development of analytical Raman spectroscopy. The award is given to individuals who have made progress in the field of applied spectroscopy through their work.
More information: www.scixconference.org/CHARLES-MANN-AWARD