Policies

Before beginning any research at the Texas Tech Neuroimaging Institute (TTNI), all investigators must review and submit the necessary policy documents to ensure compliance with institutional procedures and safety standards.

• TTNI Imaging Policy Form: Outlines general imaging guidelines.
• TTNI Animal Scanning Policy: Specific to studies involving animal subjects.

Failure to comply with these policies may result in the revocation of imaging privileges. TTNI reserves the right to modify these guidelines as necessary.

Project Request

All research studies conducted at the Texas Tech Neuroimaging Institute (TTNI) require prior review and approval by the TTNI Advisory Committee. This process ensures that all studies align with the institute’s operational guidelines and safety protocols.

As part of the request, researchers should also provide any supporting documents (e.g., protocol summary, consent forms) necessary to evaluate the scope and feasibility of the study within the imaging environment.

For assistance or to submit your project request, contact neuroimaging@ttu.edu.

Safety Training

Ensuring safety within the MRI environment is paramount. All investigators and research personnel must complete mandatory safety training before commencing any studies at TTNI. The Magnet Safety Training can be requested here. The Magnet Safety Training certificate and a completed MR safety screening sheet must be submitted at neuroimaging@ttu.edu prior to running any pilot or actual scans.

Additional information about MRI safety policies and procedures can be found in the documents listed below. All personnel are responsible for reviewing and adhering to these guidelines.

• TTNI Safety Policy
• MRI Safety Training PowerPoint
• MRI Cleaning checklist
• Safety Guidelines for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Equipment in Clinical Use
• MR Glossary - Siemens Medical

The MR safety of standard medical devices and equipment can be checked here.

Seed Grant Request

TTNI offers seed grant opportunities to support pilot data collection for researchers preparing external grant submissions that require MRI scanning. These internal grants are intended to help investigators gather preliminary data at no cost, provided the following conditions are met:

• The researcher must have a written draft of a grant proposal that includes MRI scanning as a necessary component.
• The external grant must budget for MRI scanning at TTNI’s standard rate.

Once approved, TTNI will cover the cost of pilot MRI scans to strengthen the preliminary data section of the proposal and increase competitiveness for external funding.

To apply, investigators must complete and submit the TTNI Seed Grant Request Form. Applications are reviewed by the TTNI Advisory Committee based on scientific merit, feasibility, and alignment with grant requirements.

For more information or to submit a request, contact neuroimaging@ttu.edu