Quantitative Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of Neurological Diseases

Our lab develops and applies emerging biomedical imaging methodologies based on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The focus of our research lies in signal mechanisms related to magnetically inhomogeneous tissues. Our primary goal is to gain insights into the poorly understood role of brain iron in neurological diseases and aging. You will support our ongoing research. Depending on your interest and existing skills, you will implement or evaluate image processing algorithms, solve physics-based equations using experimental data, or use high-level image analysis strategies to understand pathological tissue alterations better.

Our lab is part of the Buffalo Neuroimaging Analysis Center (BNAC) and affiliated with the Center for Biomedical Imaging.

BNAC is a leader in the development of new analysis techniques geared toward obtaining a complete understanding of underlying disease processes. Since its inception, BNAC has been establishing itself as a world leader in global and regional quantitative brain atrophy research in multiple sclerosis (MS) as well as other neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. The BNAC strives to improve the investigation of neurological diseases and disorders as well as to accurately identify these illnesses using improved diagnostic tools as well as its clinical, MRI, and genetic correlates. Numerous peer-reviewed publications, books, and book chapters, as well as awards, reflect our high-quality of research. Since the beginning, BNAC research projects have involved international collaboration with a variety of clinicians and scientists pursuing the use of quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to study brain disorders.

The CBI provides infrastructure and advanced imaging expertise that is entirely dedicated to performing research imaging. It is located on the 7th floor of the Clinical and Translational Research Center (CTRC). The CBI is a world leader in conducting advanced imaging research using lesional, atrophy, magnetization transfer, diffusion imaging, spectroscopy, susceptibility, perfusion imaging, and other advanced MRI techniques, with clinical and experimental biomarker outcomes in preclinical and clinical research models.

We are seeking students to work on research projects during the summer break or throughout the calendar year. Students who have a strong background in neuroscience, physics, computer science, and mathematics (particularly numerical approaches) and would like to work on the implementation of processing techniques in research and clinical settings are welcome. Students that will be considered include Ph.D., Masters, Medical Students, Graduate, and Undergraduate. Ideally, candidates will also have some image processing experience and be skilled in Matlab, Python, bash scripting, or C/C++ and SPSS. Some projects include advanced machine learning concepts, such as deep learning.

Working in our lab, you will obtain excellent hands-on training in these generalizable skill areas!

Computer Science and Engineering