There is an urgent need for advanced cardiac magnetic resonance imaging technologies that can facilitate simple, rapid, and comprehensive heart imaging while providing automated characterization of cardiovascular diseases.

This complexity is particularly evident in conditions like acute myocardial infarction, which occurs when a blocked coronary artery restricts blood flow, causing the death of heart muscle cells. These cells are then replaced by a collagenous scar, which impairs left ventricular function and heightens the risk of adverse heart remodelling. Fat deposits can also develop around healed myocardial infarction scars, potentially signalling higher risks of mortality and recurrent ventricular tachycardia. Additionally, mapping techniques are essential for visualizing and quantifying myocardial oedema. A comprehensive assessment of these features thus requires four distinct cardiac magnetic resonance imaging sequences: LGE, CINE, Dixon, and T2 mapping.

The objective of our team is the development of highly advanced MRI methodology for detailed and quantitative characterization of myocardial tissue, anatomy, and function in the pursuit of new knowledge about the arrhythmogenic substrate and a better management of the disease. A declared goal of this chair is sustainability of this research effort through education and promotion of young talent. To meet these objectives, we leverage award-winning MRI methodology, state-of-the-art equipment, industry collaborations, a track-record of world-leading expertise, an established international network, new mathematical concepts, and a history of successful interdisciplinary collaboration and translation.