Computational Molecular & Functional Imaging Training (CMFIT) Program

Yale University, New Haven CT

Investigators

Abstract

The proposed Computational Molecular & Functional Imaging Training (CMFIT) predoctoral program aims to provide comprehensive instruction in quantitative molecular imaging, equipping participants with the necessary technical and quantitative skills essential for driving advancements in the field. Currently, molecular imaging research is limited by a lack of proficient investigators with STEM backgrounds and with understanding of clinical applications, slowing the adoption of advanced biomedical methodologies in the field. This need is particularly acute as it necessitates a profound grasp of the medical/biomedical problems to be solved coupled with robust quantitative skills that are essential for academic careers and highly desired by various industries, such as AI and scientific programming, as well as quantitative PET and MR, pharmacokinetic modeling and tomographic reconstruction. Given the integral role of imaging in medicine and the growing significance of molecular imaging in the development of theranostics, elucidation of brain and cardiac functions, and understanding of physiological pathways, the demand for skilled quantitative imaging researchers is high. The CMFIT program will annually select six doctoral candidates after their first year of study, providing them with didactic and research training in molecular imaging technology as it pertains to normal and pathophysiological functions applied to nuclear medicine (PET and SPECT), MRI, Optical Imaging, Image Processing and AI. Through innovative personalized pod mentoring, structured courses, and targeted workshops, the program will instill graduates with the ability to critically assess the field and cultivate their own research. The curriculum begins with the fundamentals of molecular imaging and processing techniques before focused training in various modalities and domains. Trainees may explore nuclear medicine (PET/CT and SPECT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), including fMRI and MRSI, and optical imaging, with emphasis on the methodologies of artificial intelligence, tomographic reconstruction, simulation, and pharmacokinetic modeling of physiological processes. Embedded within the rigorous academic environment of Yale University, CMFIT participants will benefit from exposure to diverse multidisciplinary faculty expertise and cutting-edge research endeavors. Each trainee will be mentored by faculty from three synergistic pods: an imaging/AI scientist, a clinical/translational physician, and an academic/career development mentor. During the two-year CMFIT training, they will refine their research interests and embark on innovative predoctoral projects, poised to make meaningful contributions to the field of molecular imaging. The creation of the Biomedical Imaging Institute, which brings under the same roof faculty in diverse imaging modalities (e.g., PET, MR, Optical), domains (e.g., cancer, neurodegenerative, cardiac, inflammation) and methods (e.g., AI, reconstruction, pharmacokinetic modeling), creates a renewed excitement throughout Yale, and serves as perfect timing for the creation of this innovative training program.