Work under way at university on UK's most powerful MRI scanner

WORK to bring the UK's most powerful MRI scanner to the University of Nottingham has begun. It will be used by researchers and doctors to give unprecedented insights into brain function and the mechanisms of human disease.

- By ZENA HAWLEY

From left, pro-vice chancellor, faculty of science, Zoe Wilson; pro-vice chancellor, research and knowledge exchange, Professor Tom Rodden; director of the Sir Peter Mansfield Imaging Centre, Professor Richard Bowtell, and Kevin Dodds, construction director, GF Tomlinson, at the construction site

The new magnet hall will be a large extension to the existing Sir Peter Mansfield Imaging Centre and Midlands contractor GF Tomlinson has been appointed to deliver the project.

The 250sqm structure is the first part of the unique development of the national facility that will be home to the 11.7 Tesla Ultra High Field MRI scanner ~ a 70-tonne state-of-the-art system that will enhance the UK's capability for world-leading brain imaging research.