Dimo Ivanov

Dr. Dimo Ivanov is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Cognitive Neuroscience at Maastricht University in the Netherlands. Since 2025, he has also served as Head of the 7 Tesla MR Core structure at the Cooperative Brain Imaging Center and as an Independent Research Group Leader at the Max Planck Institute for Empirical Aesthetics in Frankfurt, Germany. His work bridges physics, neuroscience, and advanced imaging technology.

Dr. Ivanov earned his PhD (Dr. rer. nat.) in Physics from the University of Leipzig/Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences in 2012, followed by an M.Sc. in Physics from the International Physics Studies Program at the University of Leipzig in 2007. His educational foundation was completed with studies at the Foreign Language High School in Pleven, Bulgaria.

Dr. Ivanov specializes in high-resolution structural, perfusion, and functional mapping of the human cortex and subcortical regions. His research focuses on quantitative MRI techniques to assess tissue vascularization, microstructure, myelination, and iron content. He develops advanced MRI sequences and analysis pipelines for both 7T and 3T systems, with translational applications in neurodegenerative disorders, psychiatric conditions, and neurodevelopmental studies. His work on resting-state and task-based fMRI provides critical insights into neural connectivity and brain dynamics.

His publication record demonstrates consistent contributions to ultra-high field MRI methodology, with emphasis on 7T and 9.4T systems. His research spans technical MRI development, quantitative imaging methods, and clinical applications across multiple neurological conditions. Recent work shows increasing focus on translational applications connecting advanced imaging techniques with clinical outcomes.

Dr. Ivanov has received numerous scientific awards and successfully secured competitive funding:

• ERC Marie Curie Program (2023) - 2-year postdoc position
• Maastricht University-Chinese Science Council PhD Program (2022)
• Maastricht University Center for Integrative Neuroscience PhD Program (2022)
• Magnetic Resonance in Medicine issue cover (2017)
• ISMRM merit award magna cum laude (2013)
• Trainee abstract travel award from the Organization for Human Brain Mapping (2011)
• Educational Stipends from the International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine (2009-2011)

Dr. Ivanov has successfully mentored postdoctoral researchers and PhD students through competitive funding mechanisms. His research group at the Max Planck Institute for Empirical Aesthetics and his position at Maastricht University support a collaborative environment that bridges physics, neuroscience, and clinical applications. His work with the 7 Tesla MR Core structure provides critical infrastructure for advanced neuroimaging research in Frankfurt.

Dr. Ivanov leads the Structural and Physiological Imaging with High-Field MRI research group at the Max Planck Institute for Empirical Aesthetics. His team specializes in pushing the boundaries of ultra-high field MRI technology, developing novel acquisition and analysis methods that enable unprecedented insights into brain structure and function. The group maintains strong collaborations with multiple institutions across Europe and beyond.