Mary O'Kane is an Application Scientist at Ossila, where she creates, sources, and reviews resources on a wide range of topics to help researchers get the most out of their work, including in the field of fluorescence imaging. She has a master's degree in physics from the University of Sheffield, where she went on to complete a PhD specializing in perovskite solar cells and perovskite precursor inks. Since moving into science communication, Mary has written extensively for the research community, translating complex technical concepts into accessible, practical guides. Her work has appeared in several respected online publications, including IEEE Spectrum, Electronic Design, and the American Solar Energy Society, reflecting her broad expertise across photovoltaics, materials science, and related fluorescence technologies.
Cellular autofluorescence often masks target signals in time-resolved fluorescence imaging, and metal-based phosphors that could solve this raise toxicity and cost concerns. Thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) materials offer a metal-free alternative with long emission lifetimes, and early studies show promise despite remaining challenges with quenching, solubility, and spectral purity.
