Yudu Li is a Ph.D. student in electrical and computer engineering, who works in the Integrative Imaging Group with Professor Zhi-Pei Liang.

Hometown: Chengdu, China

Yudu Li in his lab.

What kind of research are you working on?

My research is in the general area of magnetic resonance imaging, with an emphasis on magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging. I have been working on the development, implementation, and application of advanced computational algorithms for MRSI data acquisition, image reconstruction and data processing to enable ultrafast MRSI. So, my work involves both traditional signal processing and modern machine learning.

Why is this important and why do you find it interesting?

MRSI has long been recognized as a potentially powerful tool for label-free molecular imaging. However, its practical applications have been rather limited due to several long-standing technical barriers, including long data acquisition time, low signal-to-noise ratio, poor resolution and large background signals. It is stimulating to find solutions to those challenging problems and make routine research and clinical applications of high-resolution MRSI possible. By synergistically integrating quantum simulation, rapid scanning, sparse sampling, and machine learning, our group has demonstrated an unprecedented capability for noninvasive, label-free metabolic imaging of the whole brain. So, I am very excited about the research progresses we have made and the potential impact our technology (known as SPICE) would have on biomedical imaging, in general, and brain mapping in particular.

How has your affiliation with the Beckman Institute helped you?

Being in the Beckman Institute and being in Professor Liang’s group is essential for me to carry out my research work. Beckman provides not only the necessary research facility for my research but also a vibrant research environment which I have enjoyed and benefited significantly.

What do you like to do outside of the classroom or lab?

I like to watch movies; I also like to travel.

What is your favorite restaurant in the Champaign-Urbana area?

Destihl Restaurant.

How have you adjusted your work in this unique circumstance regarding COVID-19?

While this is indeed a difficult situation, I have continued my research by working from home. Also, I keep discuss our projects with my adviser, either via the phone or face-to-face meeting (if necessary).