“We believe that expert medical imaging diagnoses start from world-class imaging research: we bring Magnetic Resonance Imaging research to Malta.”
1. The University of Malta Magnetic Resonance Imaging Platform (UMRI) is a multidisciplinary initiative that aims to:
promote the use of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) in research and teaching
coordinate research time on University scanners
serve as gatekeeper to MRI data acquired using University of Malta scanners or during University of Malta scan time in the case of shared scanners
serve as gatekeeper to any other data entrusted to UMRI
build and maintain infrastructure for securely storing data entrusted to the group
implement and update policies on:
the use of MRI scanners and associated data within the University of Malta
the use of University scan time in the case of shared scanners
the use of data entrusted to the UMRI.
actively promote good research practices including transparency and data protection
ensure that the rights of human research participants are respected
act as a platform for collaboration and funding for MRI research
represent the University of Malta in relevant academic societies.
Approved by Senate on 21 January 2021.
The University of Malta Magnetic Resonance Imaging Platform (UMRI) is a leading multidisciplinary initiative that promotes the use of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) in research and teaching. Our Mission is to bring state-of-the-art MRI research to Malta and apply it for the benefit of patients, students and the wider community.
As the trusted gatekeeper of all MRI research data acquired using the University's scanner or otherwise entrusted to the University, one of our top priorities is to establish and maintain a secure infrastructure for the storage and access of this data, as well as to implement robust policies that ensure its ethical use. Our support for MRI research endeavours include coordinating research time on the University's scanner and providing resources such as documentation and data processing pipelines. Through our efforts to foster collaboration and identify funding opportunities for cutting-edge MRI research, we strive to contribute to scientific progress and make Malta a hub of MRI research. Our unwavering commitment to transparency, data protection, and good research practices is reflected in all our activities.
Our Vision is to support and drive innovative MRI research and teaching at the University of Malta, and to be acknowledged by national stakeholders and the international MRI community as a multidisciplinary centre of excellence in MRI research. By upholding the highest standards of research integrity and promoting the use of MRI in diverse disciplines, UMRI aims to be at the forefront of advancements in this field, while also serving as a valued representative of the University.
2. The Platform shall be guided and overseen by a Board appointed by Senate on the recommendation of the Rector and shall have the following structure:
a maximum of 10 members which shall include, but not be limited to, the following experts: (a) a radiographer, (b) a radiologist, (c) a medical physicist, (d) an active MRI researcher / data analyst, (e) an academic lawyer who will be responsible for advising the group on data protection and other issues, (f) a representative of IT Services who will advise the platform on technical issues, and assist in the implementation of data security measures
all members shall be affiliated with the University of Malta
members shall be allowed to appoint a single named delegate to represent them at board meetings in their absence
the members of the board shall select 3 members as the: (a) Chair - who shall be responsible for leading the platform, (b) Treasurer - who shall be responsible for the platform’s finances, (c) Public Relations Coordinator - who shall be responsible for coordinating public events
the quorum of the meetings of the Board shall be 5 members
the Board will regulate its own procedures during board meetings, provided that every decision of the Board requires the approval of the majority of members at said meetings
subcommittees may be initiated at the discretion of the Board; these shall be regulated internally by the Board
The Board will serve for a term of two (2) years, after which it may be reappointed.
Approved by Senate on 21 January 2021.
3. Membership of the University of Malta Magnetic Resonance Imaging Platform shall be as follows:
all active researchers with an affiliation to the University of Malta shall be eligible to become a member of UMRI
to attain membership, the applicants require the approval of the Board. Such approval shall not be unreasonably withheld.
Approved by Senate on 21 January 2021.
4. The University of Malta Magnetic Resonance Imaging Platform scope can be modified after the agreement of two thirds of the board members and approved by the University of Malta’s Senate on the recommendation of the Rector.
5. The University of Malta Magnetic Resonance Imaging Platform will operate as a cost centre with the ability to raise its own funds, subject to the University's financial regulations.
