Project
The introduction of the MR-linac in clinical practice now enables precise MRI-guided stereotactic radiotherapy of multiple metastases. Radiotherapy in addition to systemic therapies of metastatic disease may provide better disease control than with systemic therapy alone, as these patients often lose control of the disease due to progression of the known metastases. Essential for this approach is the pathophysiology (i.e. aggressiveness) and localization of metastases with high precision in preparation of radiotherapy.
To meet these requirements, we are developing a 1.5T wide bore MRI/PET system designed specifically for radiotherapy planning. This system aims to combine two benefits, that cannot be achieved by acquiring the MRI and PET images separately: 1) The PET scanner acquires pathophysiological information and provides precise localization by means of the superior soft-tissue contrast of the MRI. This gives information about the aggressiveness and treatment response of the tumor. 2) The MRI scanner allows for the characterization of motion by 3D MRI motion tracking, used to correct PET images that would otherwise be blurred by motion.

Role
The project comprises the development and clinical introduction of the MRI/PET system, including first-in-man experiments. In addition, we will develop dedicated MR receive coils. The project is very diverse; it involves experiments, programming, data processing and hardware development. During the project you will be able to further develop these skills. You will work closely together with a team of engineers, physicists and physicians. This project is funded by grant from the KWF Dutch Cancer Society.