Q&A: Why Fujifilm VisualSonics invests in future biomedical engineers
March 20, 2025
For more than 25 years, Fujifilm VisualSonics has been at the forefront of ultra-high frequency ultrasound and photoacoustic imaging, revolutionizing biomedical research with cutting-edge technology. With a strong commitment to innovation and education, the company has been a consistent supporter of student-led initiatives, including sponsoring the Toronto Biomedical Engineering Conference (ToBE) in the past several years.
As the conference approaches on May 9th, we spoke to Mandi Da Silva, the Marketing Communication Manager at Fujifilm VisualSonics to learn more about their pioneering imaging solutions, their impact on preclinical and clinical research, and why investing in young researchers is key to advancing human health.
Pioneering ultra-high frequency imaging for biomedical research
Can you provide an overview of Fujifilm VisualSonics and its core mission?
FUJIFILM VisualSonics specifically focuses on developing ultrasound technology that has been scaled to much higher frequencies than commonly found in many of the conventional ultrasound systems on the market today. As a result, our ultrasound platform provides images at resolutions that far exceed any other system available on the market - as fine as 30 micrometers – this clearly differentiating our company from our competitors.
Beyond ultrasound, we have also developed a unique photoacoustic technology to expand on the capabilities of our imaging solutions. Photoacoustics is the combination of optical and acoustic imaging and provides additional and complementary information to what can be seen with ultrasound alone. Examples of this include assessment of blood oxygenation levels, detection of other tissues such as melanin or lipids, or visualization of optical dyes or contrast agents not detectable with ultrasound.
Our mission statement is "Through bold innovation, we empower those dedicated to the advancement of human health."
What makes FUJIFILM VisualSonics a leader in ultra-high frequency ultrasound and photoacoustic imaging?
The Vevo imaging platform was the world’s first commercially available ultra-high-frequency, array-based ultrasound system and has since become the gold standard for small-animal anatomical and functional in vivo imaging. Its emergence coincided with the rise of the Human Genome Project (circa 2000), which led to the development of numerous genetic models of human disease in small animals. For more than 25 years, we have been pioneers in advancing ultra-high-frequency ultrasound for medical research.
Imaging has played a crucial role in studying these disease models, allowing researchers to track disease progression in vivo rather than relying on ex vivo methods like histology. By leveraging ultra-high-frequency ultrasound, researchers can study live animals in real time, longitudinally, and without safety concerns or side effects.
Most recently, we launched the Vevo LAZR-X20, our latest photoacoustic platform, designed to complement the Vevo F2 ultrasound system. This multi-modal solution combines the power of optical imaging with the depth and resolution of ultrasound and photoacoustic imaging, enabling advanced tissue characterization with exceptional anatomical accuracy.
Investing in the next generation of biomedical engineers
What inspired Fujifilm VisualSonics to sponsor the Toronto Biomedical Engineering Conference (ToBE)?
We see our support for the ToBE conference as twofold. This event not only provides young researchers in Toronto and beyond with valuable insights from experts like us, but it also gives us the opportunity to connect with a diverse group of students, some of whom may become future VisualSonics employees. We are always on the lookout for talented biomedical graduates who can help drive our growth and innovation.
How does Fujifilm VisualSonics benefit from engaging with students and young researchers?
We actively collaborate with universities and academic institutions to engage students, gain fresh perspectives, and access specialized knowledge. These partnerships not only drive innovation but also serve as a talent pipeline, enhancing our brand visibility and solidifying our reputation.
Each year, we participate in over 50 scientific conferences worldwide—whether as sponsors, attendees, or exhibitors. Additionally, we host numerous webinars and workshops, both online and in person.
At the ToBE conference, we look forward to showcasing the capabilities of the Vevo F2 and its potential to advance research. We also aim to highlight our internship program and the benefits of joining VisualSonics.
Shaping the future of imaging
What are Fujifilm VisualSonics’ future goals in supporting research and innovation?
Innovation is important in the research space. We have many things on our roadmap going forward that will help researchers solve problems and translate their results into clinical space, while focusing on understanding and evolving based on customer needs.
We want to foster a culture of innovation through our employees where creativity and problem solving are highly valued, motivating employees to think outside of the box. By investing heavily in our R&D, we will explore new technologies, products and market trends that could lead to potential breakthroughs.
How do you see partnerships with universities and student initiatives evolving in the coming years?
As industries face rapid technological change and disruption, we will look to student initiatives more for fresh, cutting-edge ideas. Partnerships like these will focus more on co-creating solutions, leveraging student research, and fostering innovation in areas such as AI and sustainability and social impact, which seem to be the way of the future.
We also hope to continue to integrate co-op programs and internships as well as joint projects. This may also help academic institutions such as U of T to create better curriculum to match the actual real-world needs of companies like ours.
