A new University of Edinburgh spinout has launched, offering next generation image sensors for use in multiple sectors, including medical imaging, scientific instrumentation, and quantum.

Singular Photonics has developed technology adding layers of computation beneath 3D-stacked single photon avalanche diodes (SPAD) sensors – highly sensitive detectors capable of identifying individual photons – revealing previously invisible details of the material world.

According to the Edinburgh-based spinout, it is among the first companies to bring advanced computation to SPAD-based image sensing, enabling in-pixel and cross-pixel storage and computations at the lowest light levels, allowing researchers to see otherwise undetectable photon events.

The company was co-founded by Professor Robert Henderson, now Singular’s scientific advisor, alongside Dr Aravind Venugopalan, serving as chief technical officer, Dr Neil Finlayson, and Shahida Imani, who has been named CEO of the venture.

Prof Henderson in particular offers decades of experience, having designed a SPAD image sensor in 2005 that led to the first time-of-flight sensors in 2013, which today perform an autofocus-assist feature in more than a billion smartphones worldwide.

Now, by simultaneously capturing depth and temporal dimensions to generate 4D images, Singular’s new noiseless sensors enable more information to be extracted from single rays of light.

The company said its approach ‘transforms’ SPAD sensors into 3D stacked computational engines capable of performing a range of tasks, such as real-time photon counting, timing, and advanced processing, including in-pixel histograms, statistical analysis and autocorrelation.

Singular claims it has already inked deals with some of the world’s leading instrumentation companies for its Andarta sensor – developed alongside tech giant Meta – for use in medical imaging, and its Sirona tool, the company’s first product, which the firm said has the potential to revolutionize spectroscopy applications.

“We are in a unique position where we already have commercially available products and are generating revenue in our first year of incorporation,” said Shahida Imani, Singular Photonics CEO.

“With new, even more advanced sensors coming to the market in 2025, we are well positioned to lead the SPAD-driven imaging revolution.” 

Edinburgh Innovations, the University of Edinburgh’s commercial arm, said that accurate photon detection and fast data processing is crucial in fields such as medical imaging and environmental sensing, however the tech could also bring societal benefits, including real-time cancer diagnosis, and discovery of new materials to advance quantum applications.

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Dr Andrea Taylor, CEO of Edinburgh Innovations, said: “Having supported the team through commercialisation, including intellectual property protection and company formation, we are delighted to see Singular Photonics going from strength to strength during its first year of operation.

“Their advanced computation SPAD technology has the potential to transform a range of fields from medical imaging to quantum, and we look forward to continuing to support the company as it grows.”