Content and aim

Bioimaging is a broad field with many applications and technologies. Sub-cellular structures can be studied for example with Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) at a resolution < 1nm while the glucose metabolism of a rat can be studied in vivo using Positron Emission Tomography (PET) at a spatial resolution of ~1mm.

In between these two extremes, we find Confocal Microscopy, Light Microscopy, Computed Tomography (CT), Ultrasound (US), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Single Photon Emission CT (SPECT).

All these imaging modalities are not only complementary in the level of detail that is presented in the final image; they are also complementary in what they visualize and the information that can be drawn from the image. Besides structural information, also functional data can be gathered by making use of molecular probes in cells, organs or organisms. A combination of different imaging technologies can provide crucial information on specific biological events. Therefore it is important to have insight into what is possible with bioimaging nowadays.

The aim of this course is to provide an overview of different bioimaging modalities, for which equipment and know-how is present at Ghent University. This can be useful for researchers in biomedical engineering, life sciences or biology. With this course the lecturers want to provide basic information and technical aspects of each imaging modality. This can help the researcher to choose the ideally suited technology that is required for specific biological questions.

During the course the lecturers will provide a broad overview of different bioimaging technologies, with focus on the technical aspects of the imagers to better understand their applications. The lecturers will offer hands-on experience and demonstrate typical examples of bioimaging. Finally, the course will also include data-analysis on samples obtained from different imaging modalities.

The lecturers will explain how the imaging techniques work, where they can be improved and for what specific applications they are used. Demos and workshops will introduce the state-of-the-art technology and will, at the same time, show the limitations of each individual technology and of bioimaging in general.

Target audience

• Doctoral students in the field of biomedical engineering
• Doctoral students actively working in biology and medicine laboratories
  

Course dates

27-31 August 2012

Programme (tentative)

Programme

Number of participants

15-20

Language

English

Registration

FULL. To add your name to the waiting list, send an e-mail to doctoralschools@UGent.be (mentioning your name, first name, student number, Doctoral School, Department and the course title).  Your registration will be confirmed by e-mail.