Mississippi State University’s Institute of Neurocognitive Science and Technology (INST) and Premier Radiology are working together to facilitate research initiatives through MSU’s Institute of Neurocognitive Science and Technology (INST) and offer advanced radiology services to residents in the area. The partnership creates significant research opportunities for Mississippi State University and brings benefits to the area community.

INST received a $3 million federal grant in 2004 to purchase a state-of-the-art 3 Tesla Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machine. The collaboration with Premier Radiology helps to foster multidisciplinary research initiatives in the areas of cognitive science/neuroscience, biomedical engineering, veterinary medicine, computer science, electrical and computer engineering, and business.

The collaboration with Premier Radiology allows MSU to participate in projects that require professional medical expertise, interpretative services, consultation, and medical direction. The 3-Tesla MRI can be used to identify a wide variety of medical conditions including ligament, cartilage and joint injuries, aneurysms, vascular disorders, heart disease, stroke, and cancer, as well as other cardiovascular, orthopedic, and neurological conditions.

The advanced MRI, along with a revolutionary CT scanner and state-of-the-art ultrasound and radiography technology, are housed at the Premier Imaging facility at 1207 Highway 182 West in Starkville. Patients and physicians in the area benefit from this advanced technology because the MRI is available for clinical use one-third of the time.

Premier Radiology was selected to partner with MSU after submitting a proposal in response to a public RFP (Request for Proposal) initiated by Mississippi State University in May 2004, which sought collaboration with a radiological health care provider. Upon review of their proposal, a technical review committee including area physicians recommended that MSU move forward with Premier. Technical component revenues generated from clinical applications will cover the operating expenses of the MRI, including technician salaries, support and maintenance costs, utilities, and supplies. These revenues will also be used to help fund a portion of the INST research-operating budget not covered by grants.