MRI
The primary aim of the MR group is the development and implementation of new methods and sequences in magnetic resonance imaging, with a focus on the brain. In particular, we are interested in quantitative MR imaging, structural and functional imaging, sodium imaging, diffusion imaging and high-field MR (9.4 Tesla MR-PET scanner).
In order to support these activities, the MR group constructs and implements new hardware designs. An important topic of research is the combination of MRI and PET in a hybrid MR-PET scanner that is capable of the simultaneous measurement of the two datasets. This combination opens new frontiers for the study and application of innovative methods in basic and translational brain research.
The 9.4 Tesla whole-body human MRI scanner confers a number of advantages and presents new opportunities for neuroscientific research, as well as for the development of MR technology. In particular, a better signal-noise-ratio (SNR), an improved spectral resolution as well as a stronger bold effect, which can be utilized for fMRI, are to be expected.
Projects
Sequence & Scientific Computing
The Sequence Development Team deals with the design of new Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) techniques tailored to neuroscientific applications. The major current research area is the acquisition of high quality images at 9.4 Tesla.
Hardware Group
The hardware group develops components especially for high field MRI systems.
Team Diffusion Imaging
Diffusion MRI has established itself as an invaluable tool for the non-invasive probing of tissue microstructure and dynamics.
Quantitative Imaging
Quantitative MRI of the brain is an attractive and challenging undertaking that aims to extract physical parameters from native MRI images.
Team Novel Contrast Mechanisms
The aim of our research is to establish new methods for investigating the microscopic properties of tissue by exploiting the NMR characteristics there of.
Sodium Imaging
The sodium imaging team develops novel approaches for the study of the distribution and the relaxation times of the sodium ion in the brain.
Team MR-PET
The MR-PET Team aims to develop the new technology of hybrid magnetic resonance and positron emission tomography, which enables the simultaneous aquisition of both MR and PET data, for novel applications.
Team fMRI
The fMRI group focuses on the direct implementation of recent methodological achievements of the other INM-4 research teams into neuroscientific applications.
9komma4
Insights into the human brain – completely without anaesthesia and scalpel, but more detailed than ever before.
