Bridging Digital Transformation and Sustainability: An Interdisciplinary Approach to Research Culture through Smart Microscopy In Higher Education

Authors:  Dr Haider Al-Juboori and Dr Abdulaleem Albadawi

Organisations:  South East Technological University, Carlow, Ireland. and South East Technological University, Waterford, Ireland

This project explores the intersection of research culture, sustainability, and digital transformation by integrating smart microscopy tools into interdisciplinary higher education. Leveraging the Foldscope—a portable, low-cost, and high-resolution microscope—this project enhances research engagement by enabling students and early-career researchers to conduct high-impact, hands-on investigations in biomedical, environmental, and materials sciences. By incorporating mobile-based digital imaging and cloud-based collaboration tools, the initiative fosters an inclusive and participatory research culture.
The rationale behind this project is to bridge research silos by supporting cross-disciplinary collaboration, enabling accessibility to research tools, and promoting sustainability-focused inquiry. It aligns with research culture priorities by democratizing access to cutting-edge methodologies, strengthening research integrity through open data-sharing platforms, and enhancing research career development through innovative skill-building.
Key activities include structured workshops, real-time micro-imaging for biological and environmental sample analysis, and interdisciplinary projects that encourage student-led research. By integrating machine learning for sample classification and visualization, the work also introduces an AI-driven dimension to research culture evolution.
Preliminary results demonstrate increased engagement in cross-disciplinary research, improved digital literacy, and enhanced critical thinking skills. The project has led to the development of an open-access repository for micro-imaging data, facilitating knowledge sharing and interdisciplinary collaboration.
This study offers a scalable model for integrating digital research tools into education, ensuring sustainability through institutional adoption and potential expansion to wider research networks. The approach highlights how participatory research and digital transformation can enhance research integrity and sustainability principles in higher education.