Ian Connell

Administrative Contact: Katina DiBiase

At A Glance

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) hardware development, including specialized radiofrequency coils, shim and gradient systems, to enhance image quality and safety across field strengths (from 0.5 to 7 Tesla)
• Advanced neuroimaging techniques for neurodegenerative diseases, focusing on structural and functional MRI to optimize neuromodulation therapies
• Image-guided therapy and MRI-guided focused ultrasound
• Applied machine learning applications for multimodal imaging
• Point-of-care imaging technology

Short Bio

Dr. Connell is a nuclear engineer and medical physicist specializing in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technology and its applications in point-of-care imaging and image-guided therapeutics. As the Director of Medical Engineering at UHN, he oversees all clinical engineering and biomedical operations across UHN hospitals and affiliated healthcare centers, managing a diverse portfolio of medical technologies and equipment. His research focuses on MRI and related imaging systems development, aiming to expand the capabilities of mid-field MRI for image-guided interventions in neurosurgery and neuromodulation.

Prior to his academic role, Dr. Connell contributed to the development of the first FDA-approved dedicated point-of-care head-only MRI scanner. At UHN, he leads collaborative projects integrating imaging with AI and robotic-assisted interventions, working towards more accessible and advanced neuroimaging solutions. Dr. Connell is committed to translating research into clinical practice, bridging the gap between engineering innovation and patient care. His dual role allows him to align cutting-edge research with practical clinical needs, driving improvements in both technology development and healthcare delivery.

Recent Publications

• Panther A, Thevathasen G, Connell IRO, Yao Y, Wiens CN, Curtis AT, Bindseil GA, Harris CT, Beatty PJ, Stainsby JA, Cunningham CH, Chronik BA, Piron C. A Dedicated Head-Only MRI Scanner for Point-of-Care Imaging. Proceedings of the 27th Annual Meeting of ISMRM. Montreal, Canada, 2019. Abstract 3679.

• Connell IRO, and Panther A. Specific Absorption Rate in Head-Only Mid-Field Scanner: Comparisons to 1.5 T and 3 T. 27th Joint Annual Meeting of ISMRM, April 2019, Montreal, Canada.

• Harris CT, Curtis AT, Connell IRO, Beatty PJ, Stainsby JA, and Wiens CN. 2D Imaging Near Metallic Implants at 0.5 T using High Time-Bandwidth Product RF Pulses. 27th Joint Annual Meeting of ISMRM, April 2019, Montreal, Canada.

• Connell IRO and Menon RS. Electric Dipole Array Shape Optimization for 7 Tesla Neuroimaging. IEEE Transactions on Medical Imaging 38 (9), 21277-2187. September 2019.