So as to develop an effective tool for tumor imaging, we have embedded quantum dots (QD) in hydrogel nanoparticles. Their uptake in cancer cells has been studied in vitro and in a mice tumor model. Compared with QD alone, the QDs embedded in nanoparticles showed higher uptake in the tumor tissue. This novel conjugate can serve as a good imaging tool and also has the potential to serve as a carrier for drugs.