Centre for In Vivo Imaging
In the Centre for In Vivo Imaging (CIVI) we focus on techniques that allow us to image tissue within the intact organ of the living subject (in vivo).
About the Centre
The Centre for In Vivo Imaging (CIVI) is a multi-disciplinary, cross-faculty research centre. It was established in 2014 to bring together our world-class expertise in imaging. CIVI extends across Newcastle Biomedicine to include partners in the local NHS Trusts.
Together we aim to develop innovative, non-invasive imaging methodology for our biomedical research. We also promote the application of these techniques to address important problems of human health.
Our work spans all areas of imaging development and translational, from studies in preclinical models through to clinical trial work. We draw on expertise from across Newcastle University including:
- Newcastle Magnetic Resonance Centre (MRI)
- Radiochemistry and Tracer Production Facilities
- Newcastle Preclinical In Vivo Imaging Facilities
CIVI members also contribute imaging expertise to research as part of:
- MRC Centre for Neuromuscular Disorders
- NIHR Newcastle Biomedical Research Centre in Ageing
- NIHR Newcastle Biomedical Research Unit in Lewy Body Dementia
- Experimental Cancer Medicine Centre
About imaging
Imaging is an essential part of biomedical research. It gives a window into structure, form and function of living tissue. We can apply the term imaging to any process that captures a spatial view of an object.
We centre our work around the three major technologies of:
- magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- positron emission tomography (PET)
- fluorescence techniques (IVIS)
These are continually evolving techniques which convey huge flexibility. By combining expertise in the basic science, which underpins the technology with biomedical drive for application, we can tailor each modality to a myriad of biomedical targets. This is through the innovative development of tracer molecules or scanning sequences.
NHS Scientist Training Programme
Newcastle University if one of the three national training centres for the NHS Scientist Training Programme (STP) in Medical Physics.
Members of CIVI work closely with colleagues in the Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals Foundation Trust Medical Physics department to provide expert teaching to our MSc in Clinical Sciences (Medical Physics).