A full-color, high-resolution X-ray image of the human body, combined with precise information about its chemical composition; imaging with unprecedented spatial resolution, faster, more accurate, and safer than ever before—scientists at Łukasiewicz – PORT are working on a technology that could make this possible.
The QuPIX project, developed by researchers in Wrocław, has been highly rated and recommended for funding under the prestigious Horizon Europe program, placing Łukasiewicz – PORT among Europe’s leading research institutions in the field of Innovative Europe. This is the institute’s first project recognized under the EIC Pathfinder Open scheme—one of the most competitive instruments supporting breakthrough technologies in the European Union. The project is led by Dr. Muhammad Danang Birowosuto, Head of the Phototonic Materials Research Group, in collaboration with the Advanced Materials Synthesis Research Group, represented by Dr. hab. Joanna Cybińska (group leader) and Dr. hab. Małgorzata Guzik.
QuPIX: A Technology That Could Transform Medical Imaging
QuPIX is a vision of a new generation of X-ray detection systems that could revolutionize computed tomography (CT). Current CT scanners face limitations—low-dose imaging often means reduced image quality, and soft-tissue contrast remains insufficient. In addition, advanced diagnostics such as PET or MRI are expensive and difficult to implement in smaller medical centers. QuPIX offers a solution capable of overcoming these challenges.
The technology is based on two breakthrough components:
• Quantum perovskite scintillators (QuPS), which emit light after interacting with an X-ray photon
• Micro-avalanche photon counters (μAPCs), which convert this light into electrical signals
Each pixel of the detector functions like a microscopic laboratory—capturing the energy of individual photons and generating an image that reflects not only anatomical structure but also the material “color” of tissues. This enables more detailed, safer, and more affordable diagnostic imaging.
Beyond medicine, QuPIX has applications in industry and security systems—from image-guided surgery and quality control in manufacturing to airport luggage scanning. With scalable production and reduced manufacturing costs, the technology can be implemented even in resource-limited environments.
Among Europe’s Innovation Leaders
The success of QuPIX is driven by an international consortium in which Łukasiewicz – PORT is responsible for research on perovskite materials and photonics. Researchers in Wrocław collaborate with partners from the Netherlands, France, Italy, and Romania, including TU Delft, Université Claude Bernard Lyon, and CNRS. This combination of materials science, electronics, and clinical expertise substantially increases the chances of real-world implementation.
Such ambitious endeavors require strong support, provided by EIC Pathfinder, an initiative of the European Innovation Council dedicated to visionary ideas with disruptive potential. The program focuses on the earliest stages of R&D—from conceptual exploration to initial experimental validation. Under the Open scheme, projects can receive up to EUR 3 million, covering 100% of eligible costs. It is the first step on the European innovation pathway, leading toward the Transition and Accelerator phases.
As emphasized by Prof. Jarosław Bosy, Director of Łukasiewicz – PORT, the Pathfinder grant represents far more than financial support:
“This is one of the most important achievements in applied research at the international level. It demonstrates that our institute is building its reputation not only in Poland, but also—above all—across Europe. The potential of our laboratory, capable of transforming basic science into technological prototypes, has been recognized.”
Fundamental science—often overlooked outside the academic sphere—played a key role here. It allowed the institute to develop competencies now sought after in international projects. When asked why basic research matters, Prof. Bosy explains:
“To build a position that opens doors to projects shaping the future. It is an investment in trust and quality that pays off at the European level.”
QuPIX marks a new chapter in the institute’s research activities—combining advanced materials engineering with the real needs of diagnostics and industry. It is a project that not only advances technology but also strengthens Łukasiewicz – PORT’s position as a partner in European research and development initiatives.
