Nima Tofighi

I worked for 13 years in a radiology company doing imaging for diagnosis. Eventually, I became head of the Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) department there, so I thought I knew all about MRI. But then I came to Antaros Medical and discovered a completely different world of MRI – and I’m still learning. 

“I thought I knew MRI – then I came to Antaros Medical”

A childhood dream to work in radiology
My passion for MRI started at a very early age. My father was an MRI tech and he used to take me to work when I was a kid. He would let me scan scissors and pens using conventional X-ray, and I was fascinated by the images produced. Other kids wanted to become policemen or firemen growing up, but I wanted to work with X-ray. Many years later, the summer after I graduated from university, my father took the time to teach me the basics of MRI. And it all started from there.

From Healthcare to Research
I began my career at Aleris Röntgen, a radiology company in Gothenburg, where I initially focused on conventional X-ray and Computed Tomography (CT). Before long, I transitioned to MRI, and ultimately became the head of the MRI department. I found great joy in my work and in caring for my patients, but after 13 years I felt it was time for a new challenge. That’s when a friend texted me about an opening at Antaros Medical, suggesting it might be a perfect fit for me. I joined as an Imaging Specialist and was quickly amazed by the extensive MRI expertise within the Imaging Science group. It’s a privilege to be surrounded by such an incredible and knowledgeable team. I have developed a more comprehensive understanding of the physics underlying the MRI parameters and their relationship to disease biology. As the Imaging Specialists group expanded, I had the opportunity to advance into a managerial position, making my journey here truly remarkable.

Hands-on experience comes in handy
When we prepare for the start of a new study, the Imaging Specialist group conducts study specific training sessions for imaging sites around the world. During these sessions, we cover the study details, the treatment involved, MRI protocols, related documents, and the MRI sequences that will be utilised on the scanners. Our past experience working directly with the scanners is a big advantage when it comes to communicating effectively during these trainings. This is particularly valuable in larger studies that involve numerous sites across various countries. Having shared similar experiences, we can engage in meaningful dialogue, ensuring we’re all on the same wavelength.

Sacrifices for a brighter future
My parents are originally from Iran and emigrated to Sweden during the Iranian revolution when I was just two years old. I often reflect on the sacrifices they made to ensure I could have a brighter future, which inspires me to seek and appreciate opportunities. That is something I intend to pass on to my son as well. He is seven years old now. I haven’t brought him to Antaros yet. But he is very curious about X-ray, so I intend to introduce the idea of radiology to him too someday. But for now, he finds his PlayStation more interesting.