Danuta M Sampson

Dr Sampson's research focuses on novel instrumentation and methods for translational medical research to make a difference in human health. To do this, she has two workstreams. The first stream is the design and construction of non-invasive imaging instruments based on optical coherence tomography (OCT) for biology and ophthalmology for non-invasive angiography and the study of blood flow. The second stream is to develop standardised workflows for ophthalmic image and data analysis and quantification. She has a track record of successful research in universities and medical research institutes and executing industry research projects. Dr Sampson spent 12 years working in teams of computer scientists, clinicians, and biologists. This joining of disciplines has resulted in important advances in ophthalmology and neurology. Beyond research, she is passionate about science communication, mentoring students of all stages and developing a more inclusive society. In particular, she seeks to create opportunities and inspire students from disadvantaged backgrounds to enter STEM and to improve their self-confidence. So far, she has been involved in over 30 outreach programs, invited to speak at number of events encouraging female students to enter STEM, served as a mentor to female high school and university students, initiated three optical students chapters, as one her colleagues wrote “creating fun and valuable place for young and upcoming optics and photonics community, through professional development and scientific outreach effort” in Poland, Australia and United Kingdom. Her contributions in promoting science were acknowledged by the special award of the “Science Populariser 2014”, a national Polish prize. This prestigious competition, organised since 2005 jointly by the Science and Scholarship Foundation and the Polish Ministry of Science and Higher Education, is awarded to scientists who significantly contribute to popularising scientific knowledge. In 2017, she was selected to serve as The Optical Society (OSA) Ambassador. This lifetime distinction recognizes OSA young professionals for their continuing efforts to serve the wider optics and photonics community.