Website KU Leuven (Katholieke Universiteit Leuven)
Project
This PhD position (4 years) focusses on lymphatic (and vascular) complications in patients with failing Fontan circulation.
The Fontan circulation is a life-saving surgical procedure for individuals born with only one functional heart chamber leading to complications in about one-third of adult patients.
You will be part of a project that uses both animal models and patient data to develop a better understanding of the changes in blood and lymphatic vessels that lead to Fontan failure. In this context, you will analyze clinical data and lymphatic changes associated with the Fontan hemodynamics in patients. In addition, lymphatic changes will be studied in a large scale sheep model. You will apply and analyze advanced imaging techniques to assess hemodynamic and lymphatic changes, using MRI, echocardiography, and histological evaluations.
This translational approach provides innovative, detailed lymphatic assessment and will significantly improve our understanding and management of patients with Fontan circulation.
Throughout the project, you will closely collaborate with the multidisciplinary team in cardiac surgery, pediatric cardiology, vascular biology, and lymphatic research.
Profile
- You have a master’s degree in medicine, or another relevant discipline.
- You have a creative and analytical mindset and look for problem-solving ideas and opportunities.
- You have an interest in cardiovascular research, particularly in MRI imaging in congenital heart defects.
- You have outstanding oral and written communication skills in English, and ideally in Dutch as well.
- You are expected to work both independently and as part of a team.
- You are expected to be flexible, precise, and motivated to work in a multidisciplinary research team.
- You are expected to work translational with animal models and patient data.
- You are expected to contribute to the writing of research proposals and supervise master students.
Offer
Access to clinical treatment, advanced MRI imaging and basic research facilities.
Integration in the European research landscape.
Opportunities to build up research and innovation skills.
Possibilities to attend international conferences and networking.
Funding is secured for 4 years.
KU Leuven offers a stimulating environment for international students and support for young scientists in their career development.
Interested?
For more information, please contact Prof. Ruth Heying, tel.: +3216340638, mail: ruth.heying@uzleuven.be or Prof. Sarah Thomis, mail: sarah.thomis@uzleuven.be
KU Leuven strives for an inclusive, respectful and socially safe environment. We embrace diversity among individuals and groups as an asset. Open dialogue and differences in perspective are essential for an ambitious research and educational environment. In our commitment to equal opportunity, we recognize the consequences of historical inequalities. We do not accept any form of discrimination based on, but not limited to, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, ethnic or national background, skin colour, religious and philosophical diversity, neurodivergence, employment disability, health, or socioeconomic status. For questions about accessibility or support offered, we are happy to assist you at this email address.
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