Accessible imaging : shaping the future of imaging

Objective

Biomedical imaging is crucial for advances in life sciences and in medicine, particularly for diagnosing and monitoring major diseases. Challenges hinder a widespread use of imaging tools, such as the lack of accessible equipment, efficient examinations, geographical inequalities, and the exclusion of certain population groups. Ensuring imaging capabilities to reach underserved populations and territories is essential. This is not just a matter of technology, but one of equity and global health impact. The IMACS program is designed to address these challenges, over 54-months, by training a new generation of researchers specialised in biomedical imaging and offering them an excellent research environment within Aix Marseille University (AMU), the University of Tubingen (UT) and a network of 80 academic and 61 non-academic partners including 5 hospitals. The program seeks to recruit 17 experienced researchers (ERs) for 36-month bottom-up projects through a transparent and merit-based selection process. It focuses on three dimensions: 1. Interdisciplinary and international training: To train researchers capable of working in interdisciplinary and international environments, combining research and innovation across all imaging modalities, with international secondments. 2. Socio-economic integration: To prepare researchers for academic challenges in imaging and integrate them into medical technology development and health sectors in biomedical imaging while facilitating their intersectoral immersion. 3. Promotion of innovation: To encourage ambitious projects that enhance accessible imaging technologies (hardware and digital tools), aiming at equal healthcare access while strengthening Europe’s competitiveness in medical technology. Overall, IMACS Programme is a key element in the broader transformation strategy of postgraduate training at AMU and UT, aligning with regional, national, and European priorities.