In vivo study of cardiac function and inflammation after ischemia/ reperfusion

reperfusion

(ref. BAP-2023-588)

Last modification : Tuesday, August 29, 2023

Cardiac remodeling after ischemic injury will determine the residual function and the development of heart failure. With the development of advanced and quantitative preclinical imaging methodology in rodents at KU Leuven, it is possible to assess cardiac function, metabolism, ion channels, inflammation, outcome after acute ischemia or reperfusion injury by combining different imaging protocols of advanced preclinical MR data with the utilization of contrast agents/ tracers. In this project, you will study the role of inflammation on the recovery and also long-term adverse effects after ischemic myocardial injury. Our transgenic models, will in particular address the role of neutrophiles in those processes. Models that reflect at-risk patient groups like diabetes, metabolic syndrome will be used. You will use latest, state-of- the-art imaging technology in pre-clinical models of acute ischemia, cardiac remodeling and ischemic postconditioning to identify regional compensatory changes and pathophysiological mechanisms. This PhD thesis topic will train you in aspects of cardiology, in vivo imaging techniques, micro cardial surgery in experimental models and immunohistochemistry. The project will be supervised by senior scientists/ clinicians from the Departments of Imaging and Pathology as well as Cardiovascular Research.

You have a master degree in biomedical sciences, sciences or bioengineering with at least distinction

You are motivated to work in a multi-disciplinary environment

You are passionate about science, combining aspects of cardiovascular research, cardiac (micro) surgery, imaging sciences as well as data analysis

You have at least a Felasa B certificate

You are a team worker

You are critical minded

You are proficient in English, both writing and speaking

You should have experience in at least one of the following fields

- micro surgery

- preclinical imaging

- image processing

- immunohistochemistry and microscopy

- preclinical disease models

- in vivo imaging (for example, MRI, BLI, IVM)

- cardiology

The successful candidate will be hired as a PhD candidate. The full time position is initially for 1 year and extendable for a maximum of 4 years after successful evaluation or personal funding application.

You will work with state-of-the-art preclinical imaging structure.

The project is embedded in a multi-disciplinary and international research environment, combining expertise in imaging research, cardiovascular research, micro-surgery, experimental disease models, microscopy, immunology and immunohistochemistry.

You will participate in active scientific exchange within the doctoral school, the department and beyond (for example, international conferences).

We pay attention to international mobility, foreseeing research exchanges with our international collaborators.

The university offers many 'soft skill' courses, extending your expertise beyond your scientific project.

For more information please contact Prof. dr. Uwe Himmelreich, tel.: +32 16 33 09 25, mail: [email protected].

KU Leuven seeks to foster an environment where all talents can flourish, regardless of gender, age, cultural background, nationality or impairments. If you have any questions relating to accessibility or support, please contact us at [email protected].