Research Groups

Surgical Robot Vision

We work on computer vision and artificial intelligence which can be applied to surgery and robot-assisted surgery. Our particular focus is on developing real-time algorithms for computing the 3D geometry and motion of the anatomy, surgical camera, and instruments – and for combining this information with pre-operative and intraoperative imaging modalities and other surgical sensors. 

Computer Assisted Surgery

Our team is involved in a range of projects, making an impact on challenges facing clinicians in abdominal and neurosurgical surgery and therapy. We produce image-guidance systems, by developing novel and clinically validated algorithms so that patients may benefit from safer and more accurate surgical procedures. The main projects are Smart Liver, SNAPPY, US Guidance, VEROnA, SbS Navigator and ML Epilepsy.

Interventional Devices

Our research is centred on developing new biomedical imaging and sensing technologies to transform how minimally invasive procedures are performed. Translation of these innovations into clinical practice is a central aim. Our methodology combines a core focus on optical and ultrasonic technologies and multi-disciplinary collaboration.

Photoacoustic Imaging

The group activities are directed towards the development of a promising new method of non-invasive biomedical imaging based upon the use of laser-generated acoustic waves for visualising the internal structure and function of soft tissues. Potential applications include the clinical assessment of breast cancer, vascular disease and skin abnormalities. 

Computer Assisted Navigation, Diagnosis and Intervention

Computer Assisted Navigation, Diagnosis and Intervention (CANDI) is a research group applying artificial intelligence, computational modelling and software engineering on surgical procedures and medical interventions. We aim to translate our methodologies and innovations to improve surgical navigation, disease diagnosis and minimally invasive interventions.

Aspire-Centre for Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology

The group investigates techniques that are applicable and transferable between different domains in related areas of interest, including, but not limited to stroke, muscular dystrophy, amputation, the ageing population and training of specialised skills (e.g. surgical).

Multimodal Interventional Sensing and Imaging

The multimodal interventional sensing and imaging (MISI) group develops novel devices and technologies that enable imaging and sensing in a range of minimally invasive procedures. Using fibre-optic technology, these devices are ideally suited to multimodal use, and will provide complementary image guidance and physiological sensing during, for instance, concurrent radiotherapy or MRI or X-ray imaging.

UCL Touch Lab

The UCL Touch Lab is a multidisciplinary research group focused on the development and application of high-resolution optical microscopy and microrobotics techniques for visualization, analysis and manipulation of biomedical samples. Current research activities include label free computational imaging for intraoperative digital pathology and robotic assisted cell collection from tissue biopsies.

Human factors

Advanced technologies don’t work if they can’t be used by the intended users. They should also give a positive user experience: for both clinicians and patients. The human factors group works with engineers, clinicians and (where possible) patients to ensure that products developed in WEISS are fit for purpose, and to advance research on incorporating human factors expertise in the design of future medical devices.

Multiscale Cardiovascular Engineering

We are a group working at the interface of cardiovascular science, mathematics and bioengineering and we apply multi-physics and multi-scale computational techniques to produce patient-specific simulations and to understand cardiovascular health and disease. For this, we use a combination of in-vitro, in-vivo and in-silico tools.

Radiotherapy Image Computing Group

The Radiotherapy Image Computing Group (RTIC) develop advanced image processing methodologies for radiotherapy applications. Their overarching aim is to exploit medical imaging to enable more accurate and safer radiotherapy treatments.