PROJECT ABSTRACT
Advanced studies in cardiovascular research innovation are increasingly requiring multi-disciplinary studies
that include mathematical, computation, and engineering principles. Likewise, translation of novel discoveries
requires clinical knowledge, and a solid foundation in the understanding of vascular pathophysiology. The
future in cardiovascular research innovation will depend on successful partnerships between problem solvers
comprised of clinician-investigators and engineers. The fundamental premise of this training program is that
early engagement of post-graduate surgical trainees and pre-graduate engineering doctoral students will help
accelerate development of technology and solutions for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of
cardiovascular diseases. Research topics will include cardiac arrhythmia, coronary artery disease, peripheral
vascular (arterial/venous) disease, aortic aneurysmal disease, and neurovascular disease. With a highly
diverse and accomplished faculty mentorship network, high-level of institutional support, and already well-
established multi-disciplinary research between surgery and engineering at Washington University in St. Louis,
we propose a training program that will develop common synergistic skillsets in translational research and
engineering towards solving common and difficult problems in this field. Graduates of this novel training
program will have the knowledge and expertise to pursue either an academic or research-related career in the
diagnosis, management, and/or prevention of cardiovascular diseases.