AI enables smarter, faster decisions during surgery.
Waterloo and the Princess Margaret Hospital are developing a surgical diagnostic tool that can identify brain, spine and other central nervous system (CNS) cancers in 10 seconds. The picosecond infrared laser scans a tumor’s molecular “fingerprint,” which machine learning then compares to known samples. This breakthrough promises safer surgeries, fewer repeat operations and more personalized cancer care. Read more.
Dr. Scott Hopkins, chemistry professor in the Faculty of Science, studies chemistry and physics for charged molecules and clusters, where he applies experimental, theoretical and machine-learning methods to deduce molecular properties. He leads Canada’s free electron laser facility, has 100+ peer-reviewed publications and multiple patents.
Leveraging the power of AI with the fast and accurate molecular fingerprinting afforded by PIRL-MS will transform our ability to diagnose and treat brain cancer.
Characterize molecules in extraordinary detail by detecting their unique infrared “quantum fingerprints.”
Study complex biological systems, including cancer tissues, and environmental samples, like river water that’s downstream from wastewater treatment plants.
Advance medical breakthroughs by creating a molecular-level map of cancer and other diseases, helping researchers design more effective, personalized therapies.
Explore more ways Waterloo is on it.
Catching concussions fast →
Learn how a Waterloo startup is catching concussions faster with a new saliva test that gives results right on the sidelines.
Grounding AI in humanity →
Discover how this Waterloo researcher is designing AI that supports us, not steers us.
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