The University of Sydney’s main research facility for biomedical imaging, Sydney Imaging, has purchased a 3T and 7T MR system from MR Solutions to help accelerate its biomedical researching capabilities.

Unlike traditional systems that need to be cooled in helium in order to achieve the low temperature necessary for superconductivity, MR Solution’s 3T and 7T systems are helium-free and do not need to be cooled due its “dry” magnet design.

Also, the fringe field — the magnetic field outside the core magnet that may affect surrounding equipment or staff members — is only a few centimeters as opposed to meters, the systems can be placed near other imaging modalities.
“Excellence in research is increasingly linked to excellence in infrastructure capability,” said Professor Simon Ringer, academic director of Core Research Facilities at the University of Sydney, in a statement.

“Our goal is to build world-class research facilities supported by a team of academic, technical and business staff who will manage these platforms,” he said.

The systems are approximately the size of a desk, and compared to traditional MR units that need their own room because of the liquid helium cooling jacket that helps regulate temperature, MR Solutions’ MR can be wheeled into a room.

According to the announcement, the MR systems will enhance research in areas such as oncology, neurology, embryology, regenerative medicine and cardiology. It can also help translate research into clinical trials.

“We are excited not only for the wonderful research that will be conducted using our MRI systems, but also in partnering with Sydney Imaging to advance MRI science,” said Dr. David Taylor, CEO and director of MR Solutions, in a statement.

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