Travis William Sawyer

Travis Sawyer is an Assistant Professor of Optical Sciences and Health Sciences. He received his BS in Optical Sciences from the UA (2017) before attending the University of Cambridge to receive his MPhil in Physics (2018). He then returned to the UA pursue his PhD in Optical Sciences (2021) where he focused on developing novel imaging techniques for ovarian cancer detection. After graduating, he joined the faculty at the College of Optical Sciences to establish the Biomedical Optics and Optical Measurement Lab. His research interests include gastrointestinal cancer detection, where he develops endoscopes incorporating optical coherence tomography, fluorescence imaging, and other novel imaging modalities, with a focus on image analysis through machine learning techniques. He has extensive experience in animal and human studies, as well as optical design and has collaborated with the University of Cambridge to develop endoscopes using hyperspectral and phase imaging. Previously, he developed visual recognition software for detailed image capture, enabling discoveries in astronomy, art preservation, and the biomedical sciences. Travis is also a strong supporter of science outreach, regularly organizing and supporting efforts to educate the community and encourage careers in Science.