Research

This is unpublished

Welcome to MuSIQ

Musculoskeletal Imaging and

Quantification Research Laboratory

The Musculoskeletal Imaging and Quantification (MuSIQ) Research Laboratory at the University of Washington is a multidisciplinary research center dedicated to transforming musculoskeletal imaging from descriptive assessment into quantitative, predictive, and decision-supportive science. Our mission is to advance quantitative MSK imaging and accelerate its translation into clinical care by developing and validating imaging biomarkers that enable earlier disease detection, more precise prognosis, and objective monitoring of treatment response.

Musculoskeletal disorders - including osteoarthritis, inflammatory arthritides, osteoporosis, sports injuries, and degenerative spine disease - represent a leading source of disability and healthcare burden worldwide. MuSIQ was established to meet this challenge by uniting expertise in advanced imaging, image analysis, computational modeling, and data science under a single collaborative framework.

Research Focus Areas

Quantitative Imaging Biomarkers
Development and validation of quantitative metrics for cartilage, bone, muscle, tendon, and ligament - including T1/T2/T1ρ mapping, CT-based bone quality metrics, and imaging markers of inflammation, degeneration, and repair.
Image Analysis and Artificial Intelligence
Automated segmentation, machine learning for disease classification and prediction, and longitudinal imaging analytics to extract reproducible, high-dimensional information from imaging data.
Translational and Molecular Imaging
Imaging of tissue biology, degeneration, and senescence, validated against histology, biomechanics, and clinical outcomes to bridge bench and bedside.
Clinical Impact and Outcomes Research
Development of imaging endpoints for clinical trials and decision-support tools for diagnosis and treatment planning, with a focus on measurable patient benefit.

A Collaborative, Open-Access Model

MuSIQ operates as an open, collaborative center - not a siloed unit. Core faculty from Radiology, Orthopedics, Rheumatology, Bioengineering, and Data Science work alongside external collaborators from national and international institutions and industry partners. This structure enables multicenter initiatives, data harmonization, and the kind of interdisciplinary integration that translational research demands.

MuSIQ is led by Dr. Majid Chalian, Associate Professor of Radiology, with co-direction by Dr. Chankue Park and Dr. Hyun Su Kim, and actively supports the training and mentorship of clinical fellows, research scholars, and junior faculty at every stage of their academic development.