Visitors to the Royal Society Summer Exhibition, which took place from 1-6 July 2025, were able to learn all about EntangleCam, a new quantum camera aimed at improving cancer diagnosis.
EntangleCam is an optical camera which has the potential to replace modern-day MRI and endoscopy equipment, as it can detect subtle differences in tissue and other biological materials advancing tumour detection. The exhibit was led by QuSIT researchers at Imperial College London, the Universities of Bristol and Glasgow, NPL and DigiStain.
Many molecules are more easily detected in the infrared wavelength range. However, detectors and light sources in the visible range benefit from far better developed technology. Researchers working on EntangleCam have taken advantage of visible technologies while imaging in the infrared, using the best characteristics of both infrared and visible wavelengths.
To achieve this, Hub researchers create pairs of visible and infrared photons using a nonlinear crystal, a cheap and compact quantum solution that can be retrospectively added to many existing products. Quantum interference lets the visible photon ‘know’ where its infrared twin has interacted with the object.
End users of EntangleCam can reduce costs by requiring only conventional silicon cameras, whilst at the same time being able to access the rich chemical information available from infrared measurements.
Research is continuing to develop systems which reach longer infrared wavelengths and higher efficiency creation of invisible infrared light. Researchers are also working closely with Digistain to work towards commercialising this technology for application in cancer detection.
“It was an incredible experience to be part of the EntangleCam stand at the Royal Society Summer Exhibition. We spoke to people of all ages and from all walks of life, ranging from MP’s through to primary school kids. The enthusiasm and thirst for scientific knowledge from everyone was great to see. I was proud to be representing QuSIT and promoting the exciting applications of quantum physics in new and useful technologies.” Dr Alex Clark, Associate Professor in Quantum Technologies at the University of Bristol
Find out more about EntangleCam on our website, and also in this video featuring Dr Emma Pearce and Toby Severs on the Royal Society website.
