Development of Non-invasive Advanced Diffusion Magnetic Resonance Imaging Methods for in vivo tissue microstructure profiling

The proposed research aims to develop a novel, non-invasive, quantitative method for measuring tissue cellular dimensions and packing density in humans based on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Tissue microstructure can be probed using diffusion MRI, where the Brownian motion of water and its interaction with the cellular boundaries are characterised.

In the project, the student will develop rapid q-space imaging method and validate the developed technique through multidisciplinary approaches. The proposed work is divided into three phases:

(1) basic sequence development of QSI, where the QSI sequence will be implemented on a research dedicated 3T whole body human scanner hosted at the Aberdeen Biomedical Imaging Centre and basic acquisition parameters established; Validation will be performed on phantom, porcine specimen and young healthy volunteers.

(2) optimisation of QSI, during which the QSI acquisition strategies will be examined with the assistance of numerical simulation to reduce scan time, so that a data reduction strategy can be devised. Validation will be carried out in phantom, as well as in healthy young volunteers against biopsy results.

(3) sequence integration and application trial, where QSI with data reduction strategy will be assembled. Validation will be carried out on phantom and young healthy volunteers.

During this project, the student will receive research training in a range of biomedical areas. The student will be trained to perform MRI pulse sequence programming, a specialised skill. The student will conduct extensive numerical simulation and computer programming, a high value transferable skill. Above all, the knowledge acquired on advanced diffusion MRI is probably of the highest value in enhancing employability, since there is a global shortage of MRI physicists and advanced diffusion is one of the main areas on which faculty positions are generated. The student will also be a member of ABIC, and undertake our postgraduate generic training, including writing skills, journal club, method club and regularly presenting at lab meetings. We will encourage the student to undertake an industrial internship, and our industrial partner, Philips has expressed enthusiasm in relation to this.