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Dr Peter Ferguson speaks about magnetic nanoparticles on Radio New Zealand

3 November 2011

Wellington clinician Dr Peter Ferguson featured on Radio New Zealand's Our Changing World programme last night.

In his interview with Ruth Beran, Dr Ferguson spoke about the PhD research he undertook at the Malaghan Institute on magnetic nanoparticles. Dr Ferguson has used these novel particles, which were developed by Assoc Prof Richard Tilley and colleagues from Victoria University of Wellington, to improve the contrast of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

MRI uses a powerful magnetic field and radio frequency pulses to provide an unparalleled view inside the human body.  However, the technology does have its limitations, particularly when it comes to visualising very small tumours.  Working in collaboration with Wellington Hospital, Dr Ferguson was able to show that the superior magnetic properties of the nanoparticles developed by Assoc Prof Tilley's team, significantly enhanced the utility of using MRI for a number of medical applications.

Link to the Radio New Zealand website to listen to Dr Ferguson's interview and to read more about his research.

Dr Ferguson completed his PhD at the Malaghan Institute earlier this year and now works at Wellington Hospital.  He continues to support the Malaghan Institute's cancer research programme in an advisory role as a Research Consultant.

Link to the Victoria University website to read more about Dr Ferguson.