1. ASG Superconductors S.p.A. (Italy)
2. Loughborough University, Leo Cancer Care (UK)
3. Paul Scherrer Institute (Switzerland)
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has the capability to provide unrivalled soft-tissue contrast images in real-time. However, the development of in-beam MRI for proton therapy has only recently started and not yet reached technical maturity to be introduced into the clinic. Recently, a unique, whole-body in-beam MRI device has been installed at HZDR/OncoRay in Dresden (Germany). By means of the rotating, open-bore magnet, this device offers the possibility to scan and irradiate patients in both recumbent and upright posture.
Objective
The aim of this project is to optimize this in-beam MR scanner for image acquisition and treatment planning studies in upright position, identify potential technical hurdles to be overcome for upright rotational proton therapy, and develop a conceptual design for a future clinical upright MR-integrated proton therapy system.
Tasks
To understand the technical requirements to enhance the available in-beam MRI system for clinical use. To optimize the image quality for upright patient scanning and to acquire MRI data of patients for treatment planning studies on upright proton therapy using real-time MRI guidance. To perform computer simulation studies to conceptually design an in-beam upright MRI system for rotational proton therapy.
Courtney Ford is working on Project 11: Design of isocentric MRI guided upright particle therapy. She is hosted by OncoRay and the HZDR in Dresden under the supervision of Aswin Hoffmann. Originally from the US, her background is in engineering and physics, and she has experience working in aerospace research and development.
Courtney chose this topic because she wanted the opportunity to design an MR scanner with the freedom to simulate any configuration she can imagine and try every potential solution. She hopes to find the best possible design implementation for the next generation upright MR scanner at the OncoRay.
In her free time, Courtney enjoys hiking, playing tennis, and Iaido.
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