Bart Spronck

This PhD position at Maastricht University focuses on the biomechanics of human arteries, aiming to understand how age-related changes in arterial mechanics contribute to hypertension and cardiovascular disease. The successful candidate will join the Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), within the Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences (FHML), and work in the Department of Biomedical Engineering. The research will involve both in vivo and in vitro studies of human arterial tissue, exploring processes such as calcification, collagen deposition, elastin degradation, and smooth muscle changes. The project combines experimental research with computational modelling to investigate mechanisms driving arterial stiffening and their impact on blood pressure regulation. The work bridges engineering, basic science, and clinical medicine, and includes close collaboration with colleagues from Cardiothoracic Surgery and Internal Medicine to translate fundamental insights into practical health solutions. The position offers a 12-month contract with the prospect of a three-year extension, a competitive salary, generous holiday and bonus allowances, flexible working conditions, and access to university facilities. Applicants should have a master’s degree in Medicine, Biomedical Sciences, Biomedical Engineering, or a related field, and demonstrate curiosity, critical thinking, and a collaborative spirit. The university values diversity and encourages applications from all backgrounds. For more information, candidates can contact Dr. Bart Spronck or Dr. Tammo Delhaas. Applications are accepted via the provided link, and an orientation day may be part of the selection process.