3 Tesla Prisma MRI Scanner
The BIRC has a very powerful MRI scanner. The 3T Siemens Magneton PRISMA is a state-of-the-art, sensitive scanner for high-frequency, ultrahigh resolution imaging and spectroscopy. The PRISMA scanner allows for whole brain Functional MRIs to be acquired every 700 ms at 2 mm resolution with excellent long-term stability, and structural and molecular integration.
MRI Room
The 1,231-square-foot scanner space houses a scanner room, control room, equipment room and patient changing room. The scanner room has three custom wave guides, in addition to the primary penetration panel, to permit the MR-shielded and non-ferromagnetic application of visual stimulus projection, psychophysiological monitoring and response acquisition devices. The adjacent control room permits constant visual and auditory contact with subjects.
Image Processing and Analysis Lab ( IPAL)
The IPAL is a collaborative work space for Brain Imaging Research Center faculty members, research coordinators, and students. Featuring three private offices and an open floor plan of eight workstations equipped with presentation video projection equipment and a wall of glass whiteboard, the IPAL is an immersive teaching environment that facilitates active, engaged learning experiences for students and visiting researchers.
Assessment Spaces & Waiting Areas
Each BIRC research assistant is equipped with a private office in which subject interviews and assessments are conducted. Additional individual interview rooms and family meeting rooms are available for use as needed. The BIRC’s public space area includes a receptionist space, waiting room, restroom, and urinalysis lab.
MRI Simulator
The BIRC’s Psychology Software Tools MRI Simulator offers research participants an opportunity to experience a simulated MRI scanning environment prior to their research MRI scan. It features an integrated control panel, motorized patient table with drag sensing safety stop, lights, fan, speakers and subwoofer, and task projection system. This simulated experience enhances safety, feasibility, and image quality of research projects.