Dedicated MR equipment for optimised imaging of the structure and function of the human brain. (360G-Wellcome-108452_Z_15_Z)

We seek funding for a research-dedicated high gradient strength 3T-MRI scanner to expand our MRI capabilities at the Clinical Imaging Sciences Centre (CISC). This equipment will support the implementation of sophisticated neurochemical, microstructural, and functional imaging techniques that will extend our existing capacity to provide deep insights into human brain function and neuropathology for translational benefit. Our vision is to become a truly world-class centre for clinically-oriented human imaging neuroscience. To this end, our objectives are to: 1) optimise advanced microstructural MRI techniques sensitive to subtle brain abnormalities; 2) integrate functional neuroimaging with detailed multi-axis measurement of bodily physiology; 3) develop advanced functional connectivity analyses for causal characterisation of inter-regional neural interactions; 4) apply these methods to the mechanistic understanding of specific neurological and psychiatric disorders, and adaptive brain processes in healthy individuals, and; 4) disseminate these techniques and research findings. The centre is currently equipped with 1.5T MRI scanner which is nearing the end of its operational lifetime. The new scanner will launch a new era for CISC and enable us to pursue our objectives for the next 10 years.