FLANDERS 7T: ULTRA‑HIGH‑FIELD MRI
From Research to Clinic
Flanders 7T is where Flemish universities and university hospitals join forces around ultra-high-field MRI, so that what we learn in research can reach the patients of tomorrow.
7
Tesla: the field strength of an ultra-high-field MRI scanner
5
Flemish universities
4
university hospitals
What is 7T MRI?
A sharper look inside the human body
MRI scanners make detailed images of the inside of the human body. The strength of the scanner’s magnet is expressed in tesla (T).
Most hospital scanners work at 1.5 or 3 tesla. A 7 Tesla scanner uses a far stronger, ultra-high magnetic field. That gives a stronger signal and sharper contrast between tissues, so structures and processes in the body can be seen in finer detail.
More detail opens new perspectives for research into brain disorders, tumours and joint diseases, and, in time, for better diagnosis and more personalised patient care. Flanders 7T exists to turn that scientific potential into real progress for patients.
Flanders’ first 7 Tesla MRI scanner
The scanner at the heart of Flanders 7T is the first 7 Tesla MRI system in Flanders. It is installed at the Research Park in Zellik, near Brussels, as a shared research infrastructure for all partner institutions.
Location
Research Park, Zellik, near Brussels
Arrival
October 2025: the 42-tonne scanner was hoisted into the building through an opening in the façade
Official opening
16 November 2026
Funding
€2.1 million from the Flemish government (Department WEWIS) and €2 million from Research Foundation – Flanders (FWO)
Research and innovation
Three pillars, one goal
From the scanner to the patient: our work connects imaging technology, scientific research and clinical practice.
Advanced Imaging
Exploring what 7 Tesla MRI can reveal in detailed anatomical and functional imaging, including brain function studied with higher precision. Expertise in the network includes functional MRI (fMRI), diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), arterial spin labelling (ASL) and 3D-MRI.
Scientific Research
Supporting innovative, interdisciplinary research. Researchers, clinicians, engineers and other specialists share knowledge across disciplines and institutions to advance ultra-high-field MRI and its applications.
Clinical Translation
Building a sustainable bridge between scientific discovery and patient care. Clinical expertise in the network spans neuroradiology, musculoskeletal radiology and otolaryngology.
Our network
A collaborative network for 7T MRI
Flanders 7T is a collaboration of five Flemish universities and four university hospitals with one shared goal: translating ultra-high-field MRI research into clinical practice.
Research and projects
From new imaging methods to clinical applications
Behind every scan is a research question. Discover the research that drives Flanders 7T and how advances in 7 Tesla MRI can contribute to better diagnosis, a better understanding of disease and more personalised care.
Our people
Meet the experts behind Flanders 7T
In the Flanders 7T Task Force, representatives of the partner institutions combine scientific expertise, technological innovation and clinical experience to move research closer to the clinic.