“PhD position – Research on vascular and lymphatic complications in Fontan circulation”

  • //applyindex.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/belgium.png Belgium
  • University/Institute Name KU Leuven
  • Attendance Type On Campus (Full Time)
  • Position Funding Type Research Assistantship (RA)
  • Application deadlineAugust 13, 2025

Position Details (PhD Research Project)

This PhD will take place in the Cardiac Surgery research group of the Department of Cardiovascular Sciences at KU Leuven. The Department of Cardiovascular Sciences brings together research groups from clinical cardiology and surgery, imaging and hemodynamics, and cellular and molecular cardiology. This creates a rich environment for fundamental and translational studies of heart diseases. The department has well-equipped laboratory spaces and access to advanced facilities for in vivo and ex vivo experimental work.

Project

This PhD position (4 years) is part of a project focused on vascular and lymphatic 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, but it leads to complications in about one-third of adult patients. You will be part of a consortium 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 the effect of cavopulmonary mechanical support on hemodynamics in a Fontan animal model. This innovative approach of combining mechanical support with detailed lymphatic assessment has the potential to significantly improve our understanding and management of Fontan circulation. The use of a large-scale animal model enables translational research.

In this project, you will specifically work on the development and validation of a dual-stage Fontan procedure in a sheep model, evaluating the effectiveness of mechanical support for Fontan circulation. You will apply and analyze advanced imaging techniques to assess hemodynamic and lymphatic changes, using MRI, echocardiography, and histological evaluations. Throughout the project, you will closely collaborate with experts in cardiac surgery, pediatric cardiology, vascular biology, and lymphatic research.

Profile

  • You have a master’s degree in biomedical sciences, medicine, or another relevant discipline.
  • You possess strong analytical skills and a problem-solving mindset.
  • You have an interest in cardiovascular research, particularly in congenital heart defects.
  • You can work both independently and as part of a team.
  • You have excellent oral and written communication skills in English and Dutch.
  • You are flexible, precise, and motivated to work in a multidisciplinary research team.
  • You are willing to work with animal models and patient data.

Offer

  • A fully funded PhD scholarship for 4 years.
  • The opportunity to be part of a multidisciplinary consortium.
  • Access to advanced imaging and research facilities.
  • A stimulating work environment with an international team of researchers.
  • Opportunities to attend international conferences and build a network.
  • 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. dr. Bart Meyns, tel.: +3216344260, mail: [email protected] or Mr. Joeri Van Puyvelde, mail:.

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Research Areas & Fields of Study involved in the position

Position Start Date