Imaging: 1.5 Tesla MRI scanner

The magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) strategy is overseen and managed by The University of Manchester's Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences Magnetic Resonance Imaging Facility (MRIF).

As an interface between clinical research and imaging science, the MRIF provides access to and support for clinicians and basic scientists who wish to use MRI techniques to answer their research questions.

MR Techniques

A 1.5T Philips Intera MR Scanner on the ground floor of the WTCRF (installed and operational since May 2003) offers a broad range of non-invasive, MR techniques including:

• Cardiac MRI
• Structural MRI
• Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA)
• Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS)
• Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI)
• Diffusion and perfusion MRI
• State-of-the-art cardiac MRI
• Pharmacological MRI (pMRI)

NB: there is further 1.5T imaging capacity for research based at the Wolfson Molecular Imaging Centre.

Imaging team

The Imaging Suite is staffed by:

• Fully-qualified Radiographers from the MRIF
• An MR Physicist from the MRIF for sequence development

MRI for co-registration of PET data

We also support studies that require MRI for co-registration of PET data (available at the University of Manchester's Wolfson Molecular Imaging Centre).Both the WTCRF and MRIF teams are conscious that the imaging facilities operate as a fully integrated structure within the WTCRF infrastructure; to that end, members of the MRIF academic and professional staff are represented on most WTCRF committees.

In order to support the WTCRF imaging business plan, a small number of commercially funded, but investigator led, research projects are now conducted in the WTCRF.

3T MRI

For those researchers who require 3T MRI, the MRIF provides access to its research dedicated Philips 3T Achieva MRI scanner, based at Hope Hospital, Salford. For further information on this service, see MRIF website.

Applications surgery

The applications surgery helps those new to imaging or requiring help to complete application forms. The MRIF Administrator will advise on queries related to the application process and assist on all matters concerning MR imaging projects. To arrange an appointment, contact Jane Kear: jane.kear@manchester.ac.uk

Bone densitometry

Since 2004, an external socket has been fitted to provide access for the University of Manchester Bone Densitometry Mobile Unit. For more information, contact the Bone Densitometry Unit via Professor Judy Adams: judith.adams@manchester.ac.uk or +44 (0)161 275 5119.

Application form

For detailed further guidance and an application form for studies involving imaging, see:

• MRIF WTCRF (imaging only): Imaging application form (Word 180 KB)

Please note: All applicants need to contact the MRIF Manager to discuss scan costs prior to submitting a MRIF Application Form and Protocol.

Enquiries
For further information on 'Imaging', please contact MRIF Administrator Sue Stubbs on +44 (0)161 275 0006 or email s.stubbs@manchester.ac.uk.