Najat Salameh

Dr. Najat Salameh is a Senior Lecturer at the University of Aberdeen's School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, where she leads the Medical Imaging Technologies theme at the Institute of Medical Sciences. She co-founded the Center for Adaptable MRI Technology (AMT Center) in 2017 and relocated it to Aberdeen in April 2023, establishing what will become the largest low-field MR technology platform with approximately 900 m² of lab and office space at the Foresterhill campus.

Her educational background includes:

• PhD in Biomedical Sciences from Université Catholique de Louvain (2009)
• DEA (Master) in Health Sciences from Université Catholique de Louvain (2008)
• Diplôme ès Sciences Physiques from University of Geneva (2005)

Dr. Salameh has developed over 20+ years of expertise in MR imaging, positioning herself at the interface between Physics and Medicine. Her research spans from fundamental physics to microsurgery in rodents, with specialization in MR elastography for liver and brain applications, thermometry, metabolic imaging, and low magnetic field MRI systems. She designs, implements, and validates imaging protocols across magnetic fields ranging from 0.0065 T to 9.4 T, with a strong focus on making MRI technology more accessible and adaptable for clinical use. Her work bridges the gap between advanced imaging technology development and practical clinical applications.

Her recent publication portfolio reveals a clear trajectory toward practical implementation of low-field MRI systems, with emphasis on hardware innovation, deep learning applications for image reconstruction, and clinical translation of MR elastography techniques. The research demonstrates significant progress in making quantitative tissue characterization more accessible through cost-effective imaging solutions.

Her scientific recognition includes:

• V-LF-Spiro3D grant from Research Councils UK (2023-2027) for low-field 3D magnetic resonance spirometry
• Interventional and susceptibility artifact-free MR Imaging award from Swiss National Science Foundation (2017-2021)
• In vivo detection and imaging of free radicals using the Overhauser effect grant from Swiss National Science Foundation (2013-2014)
• MR elastography for chronic liver diseases award from Fonds pour la formation à la recherche dans l'industrie et l'agriculture (2005-2009)

As co-founder and leader of the AMT Center, Dr. Salameh collaborates with Dr. Sarracanie, Dr. Broche, and Dr. Ross on developing the next generation of low-field MRI technology. Her center is currently establishing a major research infrastructure with three fixed low-field scanners and two Field-Cycling whole-body systems in a newly refurbished facility, positioning Aberdeen as a global hub for adaptable MRI technology development.

The Center for Adaptable MRI Technology represents a significant investment in accessible imaging technology, with the relocated platform forming what will be the largest low-field MR technology facility globally. This initiative supports research across multiple clinical applications while addressing the need for more affordable and widely deployable imaging solutions.