Brain Imaging

The Brain Imaging Core Technology Platform performs cutting-edge, non-invasive examination of the brain’s structural features and functional activation, and its relation to human behavior, language, and working memory, which is observed via magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technology. This CTP is staffed with an imaging physicist and a certified MRI technologist, and is equipped with a state-of-the-art 3T Siemens MAGNETOM Prisma MRI scanner. The latest pulse sequences such as simultaneous multi-slice (SMS) for BOLD and diffusion sequences provide unparalleled capability of acquiring high spatial and temporal resolution images with adequate signal-to-noise ratio in shorter scan times. Several RF coils are available with the Prisma such as 20, 32, and 64 Channels head “TIM” RF receiver in addition to the RF body coils.

In addition, this CTP is equipped with a magnetoencephalography (MEG) lab which houses a cutting edge, non-invasive imaging technology that allows researchers to investigate how the brain gives rise to various aspects of cognition.

Among many research groups, researchers at the neuroscience of language lab explore how the ability to use natural language is implemented in the brain. With collaborations both in the UAE and abroad, researchers seek to answer questions about how the brain mediates the most critical aspects of our communication system, and which properties of the brain facilitate the seemingly effortless processing of language, ranging from the analysis of speech sounds, to the construction of meaning.

Equipment List

MRI Lab

  • MRI scanner - Siemens MAGNETOM Prisma 3T
  • Eye Link 1000 Eye Tracking System
  • Vpixx Projector System (visual, auditory, and response boxes)
  • Digital video camera MR compatible in-bore “MRC-HiSpeed”
  • MRI compatible microphone           

Mock Scanner Room   

  • Vpixx Projector System (visual, auditory, and response boxes)
  • 32/64 Channel Brain Products EEG System
  • Eye Link 1000 Eye Tracking System (benchtop)     

MEG Lab         

  • 208 Channel Kit MEG System
  • Vpixx Projector System (visual, auditory, and response boxes)
  • Eye Link 1000 Eye Tracking System
  • Helium Recovery System (purification and liquification)
  • FastSCAN Laser Scanner

Small Animal Imaging Lab         

  • PerkinElmer IVIS Spectrum Imaging 220V
  • SKYSCAN 1276 -High-resolution desktop in vivo micro-CT system
  • Anesthesia Machine

Computing Resources

  • Dell PowerEdge Server (4xA100 GPU Data Center)