April 2026 - Reimund Bayerlein-Awarded NIH R03 Grant for Exploring the Potential of Sparse Total-Body PET

Dr. Reimund Bayerlein, an Assistant Project Scientist based at University of California, Davis, has been awarded a 2-year NIH R03 research grant as Principal Investigator to explore cost-efficient sparse total-body positron emission tomography (PET) imaging and its impact on quantitative image quality - particularly in dynamic acquisition modes. This research project focuses on the development of novel system designs to improve accessibility and performance. Using data acquired on the uEXPLORER total-body PET/CT scanner, the work simulates cost-efficient scanner configurations by artificially downsampling detector data to mimic sparse acquisitions prior to image reconstruction. This approach enables a rigorous, data-driven evaluation of how reduced system complexity affects image quality and quantitative accuracy, without requiring physical hardware modifications. By identifying sparse system configurations that preserve key performance characteristics, this research aims to considerably reduce system cost while maintaining clinical and research utility. Ultimately, this could improve access to high-performance PET imaging, enabling broader use of quantitative and dynamic imaging techniques in both clinical practice and translational research.

The project will be conducted at the EXPLORER molecular imaging center (EMIC) at UC Davis, with total funding of $161,000 over 2 years from the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering (NIBIB). This award marks an important milestone in Dr. Bayerlein’s research career and represents a significant step forward in advancing affordable, high-sensitivity total-body PET imaging.

Congratulations, Reimund!