Using novel MRI techniques to develop computational models of the paediatric lung

The Auckland Bioengineering Institute are leaders in computational modelling of the lungs and respiratory system using computed tomography (CT) images of the adult lungs. However, there are hardly any paediatric lung computational models because paediatric CT imaging is rarely performed, especially in healthy children, due to ionising X-ray radiation. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an imaging technique that is ideally suited for children due to its use of non-ionising radiation. Recent advancements in MRI sequence and analysis techniques have made it possible to acquire structure and function information of the lungs with MRI.

This is a new exciting collaborative project between the Auckland Bioengineering Institute and Mātai Medical Research Institute (Gisborne-Tairāwhiti). The main aim of this project is to utilise lung MRI techniques to inform and parameterise computational models of lung tissue mechanics and pulmonary blood flow from healthy children and those with paediatric lung diseases. Specific aims include:

• Develop new image processing pipelines for lung MRI to create MRI-based computational models of paediatric lungs.
• Utilise healthy lung MRI acquired at multiple time-points to investigate growth/puberty related changes to the lungs.
• Create subject-specific computational models from paediatric patients with lung disease to simulate response to treatment or physiotherapy.

• Bachelor’s or Masters degree in Engineering, Physics or equivalent.
• Experience in medical imaging, image processing and mathematical modelling would be desirable

Aotearoa Fellowship