9th PhD from Tianlab: Jiabei Zhu
Congratulations to Dr. Jiabei Zhu.
I am particularly proud that the method developed during the final stage of Jiabei’s thesis has already demonstrated real-world impact through its application in his current company’s industrial projects. It is rare to produce work that holds both academic significance and immediate practical value.
As a research group, I aspire for us to pursue work that is not only intellectually compelling but also genuinely useful—beyond the pursuit of glamorous publications.
ECE PhD Dissertation Defense: Jiabei Zhu
Wednesday, April 23, 2025
12:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Location: 8 St. Mary’s Street (PHO), Room 339
Dissertation Title:
“Advancing Intensity Diffraction Tomography with Multiple Scattering Models in Transmission and Reflection Systems”
Advisor: Professor Lei Tian
Chair: Professor Ji-Xin Cheng
Committee:
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Professor Lei Tian
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Professor Luca Dal Negro
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Professor Michelle Sander
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Professor Ulugbek Kamilov
Abstract
Intensity Diffraction Tomography (IDT) enables label-free, 3D quantitative phase imaging using simple hardware like a standard microscope with programmable LED illumination. While cost-effective and stable, conventional IDT relies on simplified models that limit its accuracy for complex, multiple-scattering samples common in biology and materials science. This dissertation focuses on developing robust computational methods to overcome these limitations and expand IDT’s applicability.
Key contributions include:
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The development and implementation of an efficient non-paraxial multiple-scattering forward model capable of accurately simulating light propagation in thick, strongly scattering samples under high-NA illumination.
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Advanced reconstruction algorithms, incorporating both model-based optimization and deep learning strategies, to solve the challenging inverse scattering problem, yielding improved 3D refractive index maps.
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The introduction and validation of reflection-mode IDT for imaging samples on reflective surfaces, extending the technique to industrial inspection and metrology. This involved adapting the multiple-scattering framework for reflection geometries, creating specialized reconstruction and calibration techniques, and demonstrating high-resolution volumetric imaging of complex multi-layer structures.
These advancements significantly enhance IDT’s ability to quantitatively image complex samples in both transmission and reflection modes, broadening its impact across biomedical research and industrial applications while preserving its inherent simplicity and stability.
