# Comprehensive Training Program in Imaging Science and Informatics

> **NIH NIH T32** · UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN · 2022 · $44,675

## Abstract

The supplement application does not change the scope of work of the parent project.
The over-arching theme of this proposal is to train “comprehensive imaging scientists” in the skills necessary to
identify clinically relevant problems; develop instrumentation, sensors, and contrast agents to form images
appropriate for the problem; and analyze the resulting imaging data using signal processing, mathematical
modeling, visualization, and informatics techniques to improve the prevention, detection, diagnosis, and
treatment of human diseases. The program spans from molecular to cellular to tissue to organ. In order for
imaging scientists to be knowledgeable of the full trajectory from image formation to analysis and decision-
making, they must be trained in four core areas: Instrumentation, Devices, and Contrast Agents; Image
processing; Modeling and Visualization; and Data Mining and Informatics.
All students in the program are trained in the core concepts of these areas. The current training program is a
two-year pre-doctoral portfolio program. A total of 41 students have been admitted to the program. The proposed
renewal will train another 20 students. The program includes off-campus externship research experiences; in-
depth clinical engagement; and a wide-ranging professional development component. Imaging Science is an
integral element of basic science research and clinical medicine. Imaging cell trafficking and receptor
pharmacology in vivo have already led to targeted drug and gene therapies and an understanding of cellular
biochemical pathways will contribute to new advances in medicine. Individualized medicine relies heavily on
imaging techniques to select the best therapies and monitor progress. Although structural in situ human imaging
is already a critical component of clinical medicine, many advances are needed in functional imaging of the brain
and other organs to improve healthcare. Brain mapping which is a core focus of NIH research relies heavily on
imaging. We have identified a critical need for imaging scientists to develop new imaging instrumentation and
apply that instrumentation with appropriate methods from image processing; modeling and visualization; and
informatics and data mining. In recognition of the potential of artificial intelligence to transform medical imaging,
our program emphasizes applications of machine learning. This training program fills a critical niche by providing
highly skilled scientists who are trained in the broad trajectory of imaging science. Understanding the interplay
between instrumentation and image analysis, including machine learning methods, is important for designing the
next generation of hardware and software tools for quantifying complex biological systems and providing robust
clinical tools. A key outcome of the program is that trainees gain the skills necessary to identify clinically relevant
problems.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10606096
- **Project number:** 3T32EB007507-13S1
- **Recipient organization:** UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN
- **Principal Investigator:** Mia K Markey
- **Activity code:** T32 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2022
- **Award amount:** $44,675
- **Award type:** 3
- **Project period:** 2009-08-01 → 2025-07-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10606096

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10606096, Comprehensive Training Program in Imaging Science and Informatics (3T32EB007507-13S1). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-26 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10606096. Licensed CC0.

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