PhD Cerebral microcirculation in stroke

For several years now, patients suffering from acute ischemic stroke have been treated with mechanical thrombectomy, in which the blood clot is removed using a catheter. However, even after successful removal of the clot, blood flow to the brain often does not fully recover. This incomplete reperfusion can lead to further infarct growth and contributes to the still poor outcomes observed in stroke patients.

In this project, we will investigate the vasculature during stroke and after thrombectomy to uncover the mechanisms involved in this incomplete reperfusion. We will also explore potential new therapeutic interventions. To achieve this, we use animal models, cell cultures, and advanced microscopic imaging. The results of this project will enhance our understanding of the cerebral vasculature during stroke and recanalization therapy, and help identify new therapeutic strategies to improve treatment efficacy and patient outcomes.

Would you like to know more about the different phases within the PhD trajectory? You can read more about this on this page.

A Postdoc will also be appointed for this project. 

You will investigate neurovascular processes and potential interventions to limit tissue damage following stroke, using the latest intravital microscopy and MRI techniques.
Your main tasks will include:

• designing and conducting in vivo and in vitro stroke experiments;
• expanding and optimizing imaging setups and solving practical challenges;
• writing scientific papers for international journals;
• presenting your findings at (inter)national conferences.

You hold a Master’s degree in Technical Medicine, Neurosciences, Biomedical Sciences, or a related field. In addition, you have:

• affinity for experimental work, both in vivo and in vitro, with excellent fine motor skills and hand–eye coordination;
• preferably, experience with neuroimaging, microscopy, and optics;
• affinity with or experience in programming (for example, MATLAB or Python);
• a motivated, creative, and flexible mindset;
• excellent communication skills and proficiency in English, both written and spoken.