An integrated magnetic resonance (MR) and positron emission tomography (PET) system includes an MR scanner including a magnet that defines an opening in which a subject is positioned, a set of PET detectors disposed between the opening and the magnet, and a plurality of data processing units, each data processing unit being configured for communication with a respective one or more of the PET detectors of the set of PET detectors. Each data processing unit includes an RF shield housing, and the RF shield housings of the plurality of data processing units are disposed in a symmetrical arrangement relative to the opening.