Project description: Neuromelanin-sensitive MRI is a novel technique that holds high clinical potential, as it detects pathological alterations in a wide range of diseases, among them Parkinson’s disease and schizophrenia. While its name suggests that it measures the pigment neuromelanin, a surrogate of catecholaminergic function, the physical mechanisms underlying this MRI contrast are debated in the literature. Some researchers even doubt the sequence’s sensitivity to neuromelanin at all. Understanding the underlying physics is essential for quantitative neuromelanin imaging, which could improve early diagnosis and monitoring of neurodegenerative disorders. We aim to explain the neuromelanin-sensitive MRI contrast using computer simulations of the MRI signal. In our lab, we generate synthetic tissue using computer algorithms to study the signal in diffusion MRI. The goal of this master’s project is to extend our computer simulations to include two effects pivotal for the neuromelanin-sensitive MRI contrast: longitudinal relaxation and magnetization transfer.
This project will be carried out within the Radiology Research Unit of the CHUV at Biopôle, under the supervision of Dr. Malte Brammerloh and Prof. Ileana Jelescu.
What the student will deliver:
- Implement longitudinal-relaxation and magnetization-transfer modules in the existing simulation framework.
- Validate the extended model against published data.
Who we are looking for:
- Strong programming skills (C++)
- Experience with numerical solvers or Monte-Carlo simulations.
- Basic knowledge of MRI physics (helpful but not mandatory).
- High motivation to model physical processes and interest in neuro-imaging.
Start date: from January 2026 onward
Why join us: The project bridges physics, computer science, and neuroscience, offering an interdisciplinary environment for students eager to contribute to cutting-edge MRI research. If you are ready to advance neuromelanin imaging and gain hands-on experience with state-of-the-art simulation tools, we invite you to apply.
Interested? Contact malte.brammerloh@chuv.ch or ileana.jelescu@chuv.ch