2027 Biophotonics Summer School

The School of Physics and Astronomy and the Centre of Biophotonics are delighted to announce the 4th edition of the St Andrews Biophotonics Summer School, taking place 21st to 25th June 2027.

Experimental sessions were a great immersion into real bioimaging, very helpful to see other methods than everyday lab routine. Overall instructors were very helpful and supportive. Would definitely recommend this to colleagues.

I had a really lovely time! … Overall I had an excellent time, thank you Paolo and Carlos!

I really liked everything. It was a great summer school!

This immersive Summer School, with 100% of prior participants rating as either satisfied or very satisfied, offers a unique opportunity to explore state-of-the-art imaging and mechanical manipulation techniques, spanning scales from single molecules to cells and tissues. Designed with a strong practical focus, the programme combines introductory lectures (9:00–11:00) with intensive, hands-on experimental modules delivered in small groups of 4–5 participants.

Each module is taught by leading experts in the field, ensuring both scientific depth and direct access to cutting-edge expertise. The School is run in a relaxed, collaborative atmosphere, with ample opportunities for discussion, networking, and scientific exchange.

The Summer School is aimed at postgraduate students, postdoctoral researchers, early-career researchers, facility managers and industry scientists across the physical and life sciences who are keen to develop skills in advanced microscopy and biophotonics.

For the 2027 edition we are in a position to already offer bursaries for external and internal participants, please kindly inquire with the organisers.

Planned modules and techniques for 2027 include:

  • 4D confocal microscopy (Marcus Bischoff)
  • FRET biosensing in cells (Paolo Annibale)
  • Single-molecule FRET (Carlos Penedo)
  • Raman microscopy and spectroscopy (Graham Bruce)
  • Single Particle Tracking (Juan Varela)
  • Fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (Paolo Annibale)
  • Optical Trapping using the C-trap (Lumicks, guest lecture)

Registration for the Summer School

Places for the 2026 St Andrews Biophotonics Summer School are limited and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, so early registration is strongly encouraged.

The registration fee includes:

  • Lunch each day
  • Coffee breaks throughout the week
  • The conference dinner

Registration fees:

  • Internal (University of St Andrews): £250
  • External academic participants: £700

This year we offer industrial partners a bronze (£300), silver(£600) and gold (£900) support options. Bronze will have the logo of the company listed on the brochures, posters and advertisement to the School, as well as on the website. Silver will further allow to make a 20 min presentation and gold will allow additionally to place an exhibitor desk or conduct a demonstration session. 

For further information, please contact  Paolo Annibale ([email protected]) or Carlos Penedo ([email protected]).

Registration can be completed here.

ACCOMODATION FACILITIES
Registrants will be able to book accomodation in the David Russell Residence Apartments at a discounted price. The discount will be available until the end of May 2027. To book accomodation please follow the instructions in the school registration webpage

We greatly acknowledge our sponsors:

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