The University of Twente’s TechMed Centre celebrated a significant milestone on March 25, 2025: the official opening of the Cardiovascular Health Technology Centre. This event brought together experts from academia, clinical practice, and industry, all focused on exploring the latest innovations in cardiovascular health technology. The goal is clear: combine technology and biomedical research to improve patient care through collaborative efforts.
Inspiring Keynote Lectures
The opening event featured two insightful keynote presentations that set the stage for a day of informative discussions.
Professor Pim van der Harst, Head of the Department of Cardiology at the University Medical Centre Utrecht, delivered a compelling presentation titled “Artificial Intelligence: A New Horizon in Cardiology and Prevention.” His session explored the potential of AI to transform cardiovascular care and prevention, introducing new perspectives on how technology is reshaping the field.
Later in the day, Professor Jolanda van der Velden, Chair of the Departments of Physiology & Experimental Cardiology at Amsterdam UMC, presented “Building Muscle Strength: Multidisciplinary Research to Match Heart Failure Patients with the Most Optimal Treatment.” Her presentation highlighted how research is essential in identifying the most effective treatments for heart failure patients, in particular focusing on the importance of muscle strength in improving patient outcomes.
Thematic Pitches: Shaping the Future of Cardiovascular Research
Throughout the event, thematic pitches highlighted the cutting-edge research taking place at the Cardiovascular Health Technology Centre. Research activities cover a broad range of cardiovascular fields, involving a diverse team of experts, including biologists, chemists, computer scientists, engineers, mathematicians, pharmacologists, physicists, physicians, and social scientists. Key research themes include:
- Big Data and Artificial Intelligence: Dr. Jelmer Wolterink, University of Twente
- Computational Modelling: Dr. Kartik Jain, University of Twente
- Biomaterials: Annalise Anspach, University of Twente
- Biomedical Engineering and Personalized Medicine: Dr. Verena Schwach, University of Twente
- Cardiovascular Imaging: Dr. Erik Groot Jebbink, University of Twente
- Drug Delivery Systems: Dr. Islam Khalil, University of Twente
- Medical Devices: Ana Martins Costa MSc., University of Twente
- Rehabilitation and Personalized Care: Dr. Jasper Reenalda, University of Twente
- Technology Assessment: Dr. Mark Schuuring, University of Twente
These presentations showcased the latest research findings and the innovative technologies and methodologies driving the future of cardiovascular healthcare.
Hands-On Innovation & Future Talent in Cardiovascular Health
During breaks, attendees had the opportunity to experience hands-on demonstrations and view posters presented by researchers from the University of Twente and partner organizations. Participants also gained hands-on experience with catheterization procedures, as well as observing CAG training offered by the TechMed Academy and Thorax Centrum Twente for cardiology residents, gaining insights into the intricacies and areas for development of these procedures.
The Young@Heart session offered a platform for emerging talent, uniting ambitious scientists in the cardiovascular field. This session highlighted the crucial role of fresh perspectives in shaping the future of cardiovascular innovation in the Netherlands.
The Opening: Activating the Heart of Cardiovascular Innovation
The event concluded with an official celebration that marked the opening of the center. The core team performed an opening act, symbolizing the Cardiovascular Health Technology Centre coming to life, with veins representing sources of energy flowing toward a heart. This moment marked the official launch of the center and its commitment to advancing cardiovascular health through innovation and collaboration.
The opening of the Cardiovascular Health Technology Centre represents a significant advancement in cardiovascular healthcare, fostering innovation and collaboration. The University of Twente welcomes those interested in exploring collaboration, sharing expertise, or contributing to the development of novel cardiovascular health technologies, inviting them to join in shaping the future of this field.
