Future Goals and Infrastructure Needs

Our current 3T scanner, which, in 1997 was one of the first to be installed in the UK, is a hybrid between a clinical system and a research spectrometer. Since that time, 3T scanners have moved from purely a niche research tool into a standard clinical product. This evolution, together with the significant development in multiple receiver technology, which our system is unable to utilise, means that our scanner falls short of both the imaging technology and patient environment that most imaging centres can now offer. We wish to prepare now for the next 10-15 years by upgrading our equipment and securing key infrastructure. We propose to install an ultra high-field 7 Tesla MR scanner (this would be only the second within the UK) and a neuro-optimised 3 Tesla MR scanner. This would enable us not only to extend our on-going research programmes but also to expand into novel areas of investigation, only possible with ultra high-field imaging.

Further details regarding our ambitious plans can be obtained by contacting the Centre Director (irene@fmrib.ox.ac.uk). We anticipate this substantial upgrade will secure our world-class position for the next 10-15 years.