Godwin Ogbole

University of Ibadan, Nigeria

Achieving More with Less: Transforming MRI Training, Applications, and Practice in Africa

Sila Kurugol

HARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL, USA

Addressing Diffusion-Weighted MRI Challenges Outside the Brain

Luc Florack

EINDHOVEN UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY, NETHERLANDS

Geodesic Tractography based on High Angular Resolution Diffusion Tensor Imaging

Luc Florack

Eindhoven University of Technology, Netherlands

Luc Florack is a professor of mathematics, with a background in theoretical physics, at the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science of Eindhoven University of Technology. His research focuses on the use of Riemann-Finsler geometry as an overarching mathematical framework for developing physics based models of water diffusion in the brain. The technological challenge is to obtain a conceptual foundation for diffusion-MRI driven tractography in terms of an operationally defined, well-posed and well-founded inverse data assimilation problem. Key element is the incorporation of uncertainties of various kinds (data acquisition limitations, knowledge gaps, indefinite anatomical nomenclature). To this end he has set up a synergetic, multidisciplinary consortium of physicists, computer scientists, neurosurgeons and radiologists, with the support of several national hospitals and one of the world’s largest medical device companies. The mission of this triangular academic-clinical-industrial partnership is to democratise healthcare by making trustworthy, easy-to-use tractography available for every neurosurgeon and radiologist worldwide.

Google Scholar link here.

Sila Kurogol

Harvard Medical School, USA

Quantitative Intelligent Medical Imaging Research Group

Dr Sila Kurugol is an Assistant Professor at Harvard Medical School and a Director of Quantitative Intelligent Imaging Lab at Boston Children’s Hospital. She received her PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering in Boston, MA.

Her research includes improving diffusion weighted MRI in abdominal imaging. She and her team developed innovative algorithms for abdominal DW-MRI, addressing challenges including motion and low signal-to-noise ratio. Her earlier work includes development of the SPIM model, a novel approach to model diffusion signal decay using probability distributions. This was followed by a spatially regularized model fitting technique for improvement of parameter estimation for noisy measurements. Her recent work focuses on leveraging deep learning for improved parameter estimation. This includes utilizing self-supervised learning and physics-based forward models. Additionally, she explores generative models to tackle challenging inverse problems like image denoising.

She is the lead PI on an NIH grant to develop improved abdominal diffusion weighted imaging.

Godwin Ogbole

University of Ibadan, Nigeria

Dr. Godwin I. Ogbole stands at the forefront of medical innovation as a distinguished Neuroradiologist and Professor of Radiology in Nigeria, renowned for his unwavering dedication to revolutionizing healthcare in Africa. Born with a passion for merging cutting-edge technology with compassionate patient care, his journey has been marked by groundbreaking contributions to neuroimaging in Stroke Epilepsy and Dementia research in Africa.

Early in his career, Dr Ogbole recognized the pressing need for the development of adaptable, patient-centred imaging systems in resource-limited settings across Africa. His visionary approach led him to the forefront of the medical imaging community, where he has become a driving force in the pursuit of accessible MR imaging solutions in Africa.

As the Team Leader for the Stroke Investigative and Educational Research Network (SIREN), Dr Ogbole spearheads imaging solutions for Africa's largest stroke study. This ambitious initiative spans 15 sites in West Africa, aiming to accelerate the detection and reduction of stroke risk. His leadership has facilitated groundbreaking research and fostered a collaborative environment that transcends 3 continents.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Dr. Ogbole is a member of the ILAE Neuroimaging Task Force. He is also the Principal Investigator of a Chan Zuckerberg Initiative (CZI) grant for expanding global biomedical imaging. This prestigious role reflects his commitment to building platforms for expanding MRI capability and developing intelligent neuroimaging systems. Through collaborative initiatives within Africa and partnerships with institutions in the Global North, he aims to catalyse advancements in clinical translational neuroscience research throughout Africa.

Dr. Ogbole's work extends beyond the confines of a traditional medical career. His vision for a healthier, more equitable future has positioned him as a thought leader and catalyst for change. Whether working with limited resources or collaborating on an international scale, he continues to inspire colleagues and students alike, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of neuroradiology and global health by serving and mentoring students at various universities.