Hands-on Training

The goal here is to train users to design and conduct a multitude of imaging experiments ranging from in vitro validation with phantoms, biochemical tissue analysis, and in vivo pre-clinical and clinical research, validation of new pulse sequences and data and image processing. Consequently, depending upon the level of expertise and research interests of a trainee, a typical training engagement would be any combination of the following activities:

• Hands-on training in MRI pulse sequence development (CEST, T1r, CMRO2, downfield MRS) and optical imaging (see
• High-field MRI for clinical research. CAMIPM center houses the FDAapproved 7T MRI whole-body Terra (Siemens AG, Erlangen, Germany) , which is an important teaching tool located on-site and is one of fewer than 12 such systems installed worldwide.
• Building small RF coils and phantoms for individual research applications.
• Creating and modifying MRI pulse sequences as demanded by the application and needs of the investigators, e.g. Siemens (Figure 1), GE, Philips versions of pulse sequences. Use of image/data processing routines developed in Matlab and Python developed at the center.
• MRI training provided on Varian 4.7T and 9.4T animal magnets, as well as Siemens 1.5T and 3T clinical research scanners available through the Department of Radiology at Penn.
• Training in the use of optical imaging instruments and image reconstruction algorithms.
• Upon completion of training, we may request that, for example, trainees design a pulse sequence and build a small RF coils and test these out on phantoms.