Research Areas

Diagnostics & Imaging

Active research programs are ongoing in the areas of radiologic physics, magnetic resonance spectroscopy and imaging, and ultrasonography. The Center for Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Research, headed by Michael B. Smith, Ph.D., is performing research using a state of the art 3.0 Tesla rapid imaging instrument to image cardiac function. Also underway is research using functional imaging of brain oxygenation in real time, similar to that achieved with PET, but without radioactive injections. Additionally, work in finite element modeling of the high frequency magnetic fields in the human has resulted in improved resolution of MRI images.

Penn State has established a reputation in ultrasound imaging research, through research headed by K. Kirk Shung Ph.D. at University Park. The newly formed National Technology Resource Center for Medical Ultrasound Transducer Engineering fosters collaborations with College of Medicine researchers in the Departments of Radiology, Dermatology, Ophthalmology, and Surgery.