The European Network of Excellence „photonics4life“ integrates a total of 24 European research institutes of different disciplines like physics, chemistry, engineering, biology and medicine.  Multiple research activities focus on the development of new light-based technologies for early analysis of diseases and their treatment. The Biomedical Technology Center bridges the gap between developers of photonic technologies and physicians and supports the development process from the exploration of optical techniques to their application in medical testing. This ensures a continuous exchange of knowledge, which is pivotal to finding applicable health solutions. The network “photonics4life” is funded by the European commission and started in may 2008.