Institute of Imaging Science Resources
The Vanderbilt University Institute of Imaging Science (VUIIS) is a University-wide interdisciplinary initiative that unites scientists whose interests span the spectrum of imaging research—from the underlying physics of imaging techniques to the application of imaging tools to address problems such as understanding brain function. The VUIIS has a core program of research related to developing new imaging technology based on advances in physics, engineering, and computer science. In addition to high-field MRI and MR spectroscopy, ultrasound, optical and other modalities in human subjects, the VUIIS offers state-of-the-art options for small animal imaging in all modalities. In 2007 Vanderbilt completed a four-floor, state-of-the-art facility adjacent to Medical Center North to house the VUIIS. The $28 million project ($21 million for construction) provides a 42,000-square-foot facility to integrate current activities in imaging research and provide research space for 42 faculty members and more than 80 graduate students and postdoctoral fellows in biomedical science, engineering, and physics.
Center for Small Animal Imaging
Our center has in vivo and ex vivo imaging capabilities of small animals and tissue samples via magnetic resonance imaging, x-ray/X-ray CT, Positron emission (PET) and single photon emission and bioluminesence/fluorescence imaging. We provide training for users on ultrasound and optical imaging, and provide expert instrument operators for other modalities. We also provide expert support/training for data/image analysis. |
Center for Human Imaging
The Human Imaging Core (HIC) provides resources for structural and functional imaging and spectroscopy. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and spectroscopy (MRS) are available on our two 3 Tesla full body scanners or a 7 Tesla full body scanner. In addition to data acquisition, we support MRI and MRS protocol development, functional MRI (fMRI) experimental design, subject preparation, structural and functional image analysis, and training on image analysis techniques and tools. Additional resources available include optical coherence tomography (OCT), Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA), PET/CT, and ultrasound. |
Center for Computational Imaging
The Center for Computational Imaging (CCI) provides solutions and services aimed to make imaging research more tractable to members of the scientific community. The CCI works with researchers to provide services, training, and guidance for image analysis and informatics. The CCI develops support tools, informatics tools, and infrastructure, to help advance imaging research for the center's user, collaborators, and the medical imaging community. |
Radiochemistry
The mission of the VUIIS Research Radiochemistry Core Laboratory is to help Vanderbilt Investigators: (1) Conduct clinical trials that feature molecular imaging endpoints (2) Develop and translate novel radiopharmaceuticals to patients (3) Non-invasively visualize and quantify molecular events in patients and in preclinical in vivo models. |