MRI-Console UIC4UHFMRI

UIC4UHFMRI – Universal Integrated Console for Ultra-High-Field Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Project Overview

“UIC4UHFMRI” is a research project at Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, running from January 2024 to December 2027. Its goal is to develop a universal integrated MRI console for ultra-high-field systems of up to 14 Tesla – a major technological milestone in medical imaging. The new console will surpass all existing systems and strengthen Magdeburg’s position as a lighthouse site for MRI and neuroscience.
The project is funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

Participants

Project Lead: Prof. Dr. Fabian Lurz, Integrated Electronic Systems
Other Chairs at OVGU:

• Prof. Dr. Fabian Lurz, Integrated Electronic Systems

• Prof. Dr. Thilo Pionteck, Hardware-Oriented Technical Computer Science

• Prof. Dr. Georg Rose, Medical Telematics

• Prof. Dr. Oliver Speck, Biomedical Magnetic Resonance

• Prof. Dr. Ulrike Steinmann, Measurement Technology

• Prof. Dr. Ralf Vick, Electromagnetic Compatibility

• Prof. Dr.-Ing. habil. Holger Maune, Chair of High-Frequency and Communication Engineering

Cooperation Partners:
Ferdinand-Braun-Institut (Berlin) · Leibniz-IHP (Frankfurt/Oder) · Neoscan Solutions (Magdeburg) · Radboud University (Netherlands) · University Medical Center Freiburg · German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ, Heidelberg)

Structural Goals

• Establish an interdisciplinary research ecosystem for microelectronics, medical technology, and neuroscience at OVGU

• Strengthen Magdeburg as a center for ultra-high-field MRI technology

• Integrate into Saxony-Anhalt’s high-tech strategy and the Intel ecosystem

• Foster spin-offs, business settlements, and skilled workforce development in the region

About the Project

Ultra-high-field magnetic resonance imaging (UHF-MRI) with up to 14 Tesla allows unprecedented image resolution – ideal for studying brain structure and function. This technology demands the highest standards in signal processing, data storage, and safety.
UIC4UHFMRI is developing a modular console with at least 32 transmit and 64 receive channels, an RF bandwidth of 13–600 MHz, and 2 kW transmit power per channel. Special focus is placed on energy efficiency, real-time feedback, scalability, and patient safety.

Key Objectives

• Develop a universal, modular MRI console for ultra-high-field systems

• Integrate state-of-the-art semiconductor technologies (e.g., GaN, CMOS) for performance and efficiency

• Reduce power consumption and the ecological footprint of MRI systems

• Implement innovative safety and monitoring concepts (EMC, SAR)

• Promote knowledge transfer between academia and industry

Use Cases & Applications

• Ultra-high-resolution neuroimaging at 14T field strength

• Research on innovative MRI sequences and multi-channel systems

• Development of components transferable to other medical imaging equipment

• Training of students, engineers, and technicians in future-oriented microelectronics and medical technology

Get Involved

The project thrives on cooperation with industry, research institutions, and healthcare providers. Companies, researchers, and students are welcome to participate and benefit from this technological leap.