In the Lab | Christophe Tourain: turning scientific ideas into practical tools to advance research
To mark the awarding of the 2026 CNRS Crystal Medal, the Institut de la Vision is honouring Christophe Tourain, an assistant engineer specialising in scientific instrumentation within the Department of Photonics.
In this new episode of In the Lab, Christophe Tourain looks back on his career, his day-to-day work and his role in developing innovative tools for the neurosciences.
Christophe Tourain works as part of Valentina Emiliani’s team in the Photonics Department at the Institut de la Vision. His role is to support the research teams in the design, adaptation and maintenance of the scientific equipment required for their work.
"My job is to transform scientific ideas into concrete tools to advance research."
On a daily basis, Christophe designs and adapts custom experimental devices to meet researchers' needs. His work is driven by a variety of projects: exchanging with a scientist to understand a need, designing a specific part in the prototyping workshop, working on equipment or finding a solution to an unexpected technical problem.
Tools to better understand the brain
Within Valentina Emiliani's team, Christophe contributes in particular to the development of miniaturised microscopes enabling the observation and control of neuronal circuit activity through optogenetics, in freely moving animals.
These technologies allow researchers to study brain function under conditions close to natural behaviour and to explore the mechanisms involved in complex functions, such as spatial navigation or social interactions.
A CNRS Crystal Medal to honour everyday commitment
In 2026, Christophe Tourain received the CNRS Crystal Medal, an award recognising his technical expertise and dedication to research.
This recognition also highlights the essential role of engineers and support staff, who assist scientists on a daily basis and contribute to making tomorrow's advances possible.
While Christophe contributes today to the development of cutting-edge technologies, he keeps in mind a strong ambition: to see these innovations one day directly benefit patients.
"My dream is for our work to one day restore vision in blind patients."
🎥 Watch Christophe Tourain's interview in this new episode of In the Lab.