Gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCAs) are widely used in clinical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to identify the presence of brain tumours, lesions in Multiple Sclerosis, and many other tissue abnormalities. Per annum millions of doses of GBCAs are administered in medical imaging centres worldwide. However, there is evidence of contrast agent accumulation in patients, with unknown long-term consequences. Indeed, it is widely recognized that a reduction and even avoidance of contrast agents urgently needed.

In a collaborative project the MR Physics group in Erasmus MC and the Medical Imaging Cluster at TU Delft developed new quantitative MR techniques allowing sub-voxel characterization of tissues. Furthermore, preliminary evidence by the MR Physics group suggests that gliomas as well as MS lesions can be characterized based on quantitative MRI without the necessity of gadolinium contrast injection through AI techniques.

In this project, we aim to facilitate contrast-free characterization of glioma and MS lesions by combining the best aspects of two revolutionary technologies: quantitative MRI and deep learning AI technology. The project involves a synergistic collaboration between Erasmus MC, TU Delft and GE Healthcare.

• You should be an independent and highly motivated researcher with an MSc or MEng degree in a technical domain (e.g., Physics, Engineering, Mathematics, Informatics, Clinical/Biomedical Technology).
• Experience with MR imaging, image processing, and/or machine learning is highly valued.
• You should be able to communicate and work with researchers from various fields.
• Excellent proficiency in English is required.

• You will receive a temporary position for 4 years. The gross monthly salary is € 3.017,- in the 1st year and increases to € 3.824,- in the 4th year (scale OIO).
• Excellent fringe benefits, such as a 13th month that is already paid out in November and an individual travel expense package.
• Pension insurance with ABP, we take care of approximately 2/3 of the monthly contribution.
• Special benefits, such as an in-company physiotherapist and bicycle repairer. There is also a gym where you can work on your fitness after work.

Erasmus MC

The research will be conducted at the MR physics group as well as the Biomedical Imaging Group Rotterdam (BIGR), which are part of the department of Radiology & Nuclear Medicine of the Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam. The department of Radiology & Nuclear Medicine of the Erasmus MC is one of the largest medical imaging departments in Europe with 10 clinical MRI scanners at several field strengths. The department has an international and diverse character with a good balance between internationally recognised, high-end research and an excellent social working environment. We do not discriminate on the basis of sex, gender, belief, culture, place of birth or occupational impairment when recruiting and selecting staff and students. You will collaborate with a team of experienced researchers with backgrounds in image analysis, machine learning, radiology, pathology, surgery, and oncology. As part of the project, you will also work with experts from the Department of Imaging Physics at TU Delft with whom the Department of Radiology & Nuclear Medicine closely collaborates.

The supervision for the projects will be provided by assistant professor Dirk Poot, PhD, and associate professor Frans Vos, PhD, and full professor Juan Hernandez-Tamames.