Advanced MR Physics 1

This advanced MRI course covers the physical principles of MRI and sequence design issues.
Topics that will be covered are:

• The classical NMR mode: nucleus in a magnetic field
• Rotating reference frame & resonance
• Bloch equations
• Signal detection concepts
• Signal acquisition: FID and echo techniques
• Multi-dimensional Fourier imaging and k-space
• Fourier image reconstruction
• Signal, contrast and noise
• Basic sequence design

After completing the course the participant:

1. understands the physical origin of the NMR signal;
2. can mathematically describe the methods used for spatial encoding of the NMR signal, for signal detection and for subsequent image reconstruction;
3. understands and can mathematically describe the methods for creating various types of signal weighting in MRI;
4. can mathematically derive optimal parameter settings for specific MRI applications given certain prerequisites in terms of signal-to-noise-ratio, contrasts, scan duration, etc.;
5. knows the basic concepts of pulse sequence design for MRI techniques.

Scientists and engineers (STEM domain) with basic knowledge of MRI, who want to develop a deeper understanding of MRI physics.

In total, 14 sessions of 2-3 hours, 2 per week, on the same day, during November - February.

Exam / final assessment at the end of the course: 4 February 2027.

This course takes a blended learning approach. Recorded lectures will be available to prepare for interactive face-to-face lectures and tutorial sessions on-campus.

For the lectures (morning sessions) attendance is highly recommended; the tutorial sessions in the afternoon are mandatory.

Alongside these, participants are expected to dedicate approximately 8-10 hours per week to self-study, individual assignments. Questions on theory and exercises can be posted on the appropriate forum on the university digital learning environment (UU Teams) or asked during the lectures or tutorials. The exam will be on location (i.e. not online).

General questions

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Content questions

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Basic knowledge of mathematics (differential equations, vector calculus, Fourier analysis, complex functions, electromagnetism (Faraday’s law of induction, static magnetic field calculations, electromagnetic waves)) and MRI at BSc level.
Preferably also the study material on MRI provided in the Medical Imaging course Medical Image Formation.

For this course, you will need:

• Brown, Robert W., et al. Magnetic Resonance Imaging : Physical Principles and Sequence Design, John Wiley & Sons, Incorporated, 2014.
• Hand-outs provided by the lecturers.

Please note that this course is part of the existing MSc and PhD programs Medical Imaging within the Graduate School of Life Sciences.

Tuitition fees may alter during the year.