Welcome to our lab

We work at the intersection of ​optical technology innovation and biomedical research. Utilizing the optical phenomenon known as Brillouin scattering, we design and build optical instrument to quantify the mechanical properties (i.e., viscoelasticity) of matter with diffraction-limited resolution and in a non-contact, non-invasive manner. In combination with other imaging modalities, we study biomechanics of cells, tissue, and biomaterials. Ultimately, our goal is to address crucial questions in biophysics and mechanobiology, with a focus on clinical application for combating birth defects and cancer diseases.

We are looking for PhD students in Fall 2026. Please reach out if you are interested.

Contact us

Dr. Jitao Zhang (zhan2399#msu.edu)​
​Office: IQ 4312. Lab: IQ 4522, 4531 Phone: (517) 884 6974.
Biomedical Engineering Department & Institute for Quantitative Health Science & Engineering (IQ), Michigan State University
775 Woodlot Dr., East Lansing MI 48824 USA