Seven new Helmholtz Imaging projects selected for funding

Helmholtz Imaging is pleased to announce the newly funded interdisciplinary projects from the latest Helmholtz Imaging Project Call. Following a highly competitive selection process, seven collaborative projects have been approved for funding, bringing together expertise from across the Helmholtz Association and beyond.

The funded projects reflect the broad methodological and thematic spectrum of Helmholtz Imaging. They address key challenges in imaging, ranging from the development of novel imaging technologies and AI-based analysis methods to translational applications in medicine, life sciences, and the physical sciences. A strong emphasis was placed on interdisciplinarity, innovation, and the potential for sustainable impact within and beyond the Helmholtz research landscape.

With this funding line, Helmholtz Imaging continues to foster close collaboration between imaging experts, domain scientists, and method developers. The projects are designed to strengthen cross-center networking, accelerate the transfer of imaging innovations, and lay the groundwork for long-term scientific cooperation.

In addition, this year’s call offered the opportunity to apply for additional funding through the “Generalizing Imaging Solutions Track”. This track supports projects that aim to develop imaging methods, algorithms, or software that can be applied out-of-the-box across multiple domains. Among the newly funded projects, GROOVY and MULTI-TRACE successfully applied for this additional budget, further strengthening the cross-domain character and long-term impact of Helmholtz Imaging Projects.

Below, we present the newly funded projects in a short overview. Stay tuned for more information about each project!

Newly funded projects

• 3D-Gain: Realistic 3D Atmospheric Reconstruction for Generative AI Nowcasting of Precipitation and Irradiance using Remote Sensing and In-Situ Data. This project creates detailed three-dimensional atmospheric models by combining ground and satellite images. By using generative AI, it improves weather predictions for both solar farms and flood warning systems.
• BenthicAI: Illuminating invisible life in the Wadden Sea. This project uses underwater cameras, acoustic sonar, and artificial intelligence to detect burrowing animals such as clams and worms based on the traces they leave in the seafloor. It supports the characterization of marine life without disturbing sensitive ecosystems.
• GROOVY: HiGh ContRast DichrOic ReflectiOn EUV MicroscopY. This project develops lens-less, high-resolution nanoscale imaging based on polarization-dependent reflection of ultrashort-wavelength light to image magnetic structures.
• MemBrain-structure: AI-driven End-to-End Pipeline for Membrane Protein Structure De-termination by Cryo-ET. This project applies artificial intelligence to detect and visualize membrane proteins directly within cells. It simplifies the study of diseases and development of treatments by turning complex data into clear 3D structures.
• Moisture3D: Mapping of Integral Soil Tomography Using Radar Enhancement in 3D. This project uses a drone with advanced radar and artificial intelligence to generate three-dimensional maps of underground soil moisture. The approach supports improved environmental monitoring and sustainable water resource management.
• MULTI-TRACE: Simultaneous quantitative multi-molecular PET imaging of two radiopharmaceuticals: from algorithmic developments to applications in neuroscience and oncology. This project develops software that enables the investigation of two imaging agents within a single PET scan. This approach allows deeper insights into molecular processes.
• Vi(MA)2C: Vision-based Microscope Automation for Microbial Arena Composition. This project enables the structured design and real-time, vision-guided creation and control of microbial arenas. It transforms live-cell imaging from passive observation into active and precise manipulation of microbial environments.

Helmholtz Imaging congratulates all project teams on their successful applications and looks forward to accompanying the projects over the coming funding period.

For a detailed overview of all ongoing projects, please visit the dedicated Helmholtz Imaging Projects webpage. The new projects will be added to the overview in due time.