Explore every episode of the podcast AtheroTalk

In this episode, our guest is Dr Simon Pfisterer, group leader at the University of Helsinki and Chief Scientific Officer of Moncyte Ltd. His work bridges cutting-edge research and clinical application in dyslipidaemia and cardiovascular disease. We're talking about his academic journey, his move into biotech, and his vision for the future of precision medicine in atherosclerosis.

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Script-prep: Joana Chora, Sanne Maas, Elena Rodriguez Sanchez
Interviewer: Sanne Maas

In this episode, a leading interventional cardiologist and pioneering researcher, Prof. Gemma Figtree brings a unique perspective at the intersection of clinical care, molecular science, and national health strategy. From her early academic journey to groundbreaking work, Prof. Figtree shares ideas that are as inspiring as they are impactful. Join us for a conversation that explores not only the science but also the passion, resilience, and vision at the frontlines of cardiology.

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Script-prep: Elena Rodriguez Sanchez, Tatyana Storozhenko

Interviewer: Tatyana Storozhenko

In this special AtheroTalk live episode from the EAS Congress floor, hosts Emiel van der Vorst and Azin Kheirkhah sit down with two leading experts and successful grant winners in cardiovascular research—Prof. Judith Sluimer, recipient of the prestigious Vici grant from the Dutch Research Council (NWO), and Prof. Keith Channon, honored with the British Heart Foundation (BHF) Research Excellence Award.

Together, they offer a candid look at what it really takes to secure major research funding. From early grant attempts and tough rejections to imposter syndrome and practical proposal strategies, this 20-minute conversation (plus live audience Q&A) delivers rare behind-the-scenes insights and advice for aspiring grant applicants.

In this episode, we talk with Prof. Noam Zelcer, a globally respected expert in the field of molecular regulation of lipid metabolism and cardiometabolic diseases. He shares his perspectives on the evolving field of lipid metabolism research. Besides his scientific insights, he encourages us to discuss our failures, which are “a feature of science, not a bug”. Another key message: “Define clear go/no-go milestones for your project”.

If you are interested in his work, he currently has an open position for a PhD student as also discussed during this episode.

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Script-prep: Pelin Golforoush, Emiel van der Vorst

Interviewer: Emiel van der Vorst

How do you build confidence and momentum early in your research career? In this episode, Prof. Jeffrey Kroon shares his perspective on navigating the competitive world of academic science. From applying for grants to leading innovative research, he offers practical advice on taking bold steps forward.

His key message? “Don’t hesitate - go for it!” Whether it’s your first grant application or a new research idea, Prof. Kroon encourages young scientists to be proactive and persistent.

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Script-prep: Pelin Golforoush, Azin Kheirkhah, Javier Rodríguez-Carrio, Emiel van der Vorst

Interviewer: Pelin Golforoush, Azin Kheirkhah

In this episode of AtheroTalk, let's meet Prof. Børge Nordestgaard, the founder of the Copenhagen General Population Study and the current EAS President.

Do you want to know more about his research trajectory, the mentors he met along the way, and the projects he's working on beyond the Copenhagen General Population Study? Or maybe you just want to get to know him more personally? Listen to the podcast and find out more about this amazing and inspiring man!

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Script-prep: Mariia Cherska, Azin Kheirkhah, Jan Novák

Interviewer: Jan Novák

How can you find inspiration and stay motivated in the early stages of your career? According to Prof. Christoph Binder, building a strong foundation is key. He shares a lot of practical advice in this insightful conversation. Don’t worry if things don’t go exactly as you thought - Prof. Binder reminds us: “In general, I think most good projects do not work out as planned. This is what actually makes science exciting."

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Script-prep: Hana Bartušková, Azin Kheirkhah, Javier Rodríguez-Carrio, Tatyana Storozhenko, Emiel van der Vorst

Interviewer: Tatyana Storozhenko, Emiel van der Vorst

In this episode of AtheroTalk, Professor Jeanine Roeters van Lennep, Head of the Lipid Clinic at Erasmus Medical Center, joins us to share her insights into cardiovascular prevention and familial hypercholesterolemia. She talks about her journey into atherosclerosis research, her leadership roles, and how she balances research with clinical work. We also explore the critical need for diversity in research and the evolving role of technology and social media in academia.

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Script-prep: Pelin Golforoush, Azin Kheirkhah, Javier Rodríguez-Carrio, Yusuf Ziya Sener, Tatyana Storozhenko

Interviewer: Yusuf Ziya Sener

This episode is a special one! We sit down for an inspiring conversation with Dr Mate Kiss, winner of the Young Investigator Award in Basic Science for 2023, as he guides us through his groundbreaking research on Cell-autonomous regulation of complement C3 by factor H limits macrophage efferocytosis and exacerbates atherosclerosis, published in Immunity (http://doi.org/10.1016/j.immuni.2023.06.026).

Dr Kiss shares his journey as an early-career scientist, key insights from his award-winning work, and the challenges he overcame along the way. We also delve into his latest research on the intriguing connection between sleep and atherosclerosis.

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Script-prep: Fotios Barkas, Mariia Cherska, Azin Kheirkhah, Sanne Maas, Emiel van der Vorst

Interviewer: Florentina Porsch

In this episode, we sit down with Prof. Florian Kronenberg, a leading expert in genetic epidemiology, to explore the latest breakthroughs in Lp(a) research.

As a key contributor to the EAS Consensus Statement on Lp(a), Prof. Kronenberg shares how these guidelines are shaping clinical practice, debunks common misconceptions - including confusion around Lp(a) thresholds - and highlights the biggest unanswered questions in the field.

We discuss upcoming significant events in the Lp(a) area, such as the Lp(a) International Task Force and the 1st Global Lp(a) Summit, which brings together KOLs, patients, and policymakers to advocate for real change.

In the end, we talk with our guest about his involvement in the Atherosclerosis Journal as Deputy Editor.

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Script-prep: Hana Bartušková, Mariia Cherska, Azin Kheirkhah, Irina Starodubtseva

Interviewer: Azin Kheirkhah

What does it take to lead at a prestigious medical institution while driving groundbreaking research? See every step of your career and research as an opportunity to evolve and learn! Join us for an insightful discussion with Prof. Dale Abel, a renowned expert in cardiometabolic research and Chair of Medicine at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, on leadership, international mobility, and his vision for the future of cardiometabolic disease management.

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Script-prep: Elena Rodriguez Sanchez, Azin Kheirkhah, Maria Giovanna Lupo, Tatyana Storozhenko

Interviewer: Elena Rodriguez-Sanchez

Prepare to be inspired! In this episode, we sit down with Prof. Paul Ridker for an insightful conversation brimming with invaluable advice for young scientists. From tackling personal questions to exploring groundbreaking frontiers in cardiovascular disease (CVD) research, this episode has it all. Tune in and don’t miss Prof. Ridker’s powerful advice: "Try to find out what you’re actually really good at and find a problem that excites you!”

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Script-prep: Elena Rodriguez-Sanchez, Fotios Barkas, Hana Bartušková, Mariia Cherska, Azin Kheirkhah, Jan Novak, Javier Rodriguez-Carrio, Tatyana Storozhenko

Interviewer: Azin Kheirkhah

Welcome to episode 4! We had the pleasure of speaking with Prof. Alexander Bartelt from Ludwig-Maximilians-University in Munich. A leading expert on cellular stress in metabolic syndrome, Prof. Bartelt exemplifies how dedication, passion for science, and a touch of creativity can lead to remarkable success. His secret? Daily yoga and a deep love for his work.

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Script-prep: Hana Bartušková, Pelin Arabacilar Golforoush, Azin Kheirkhah, Svetlana Stoica

Interviewer: Maria Giovanna Lupo

In episode 3 of AtheroTalk, we spoke with Prof. Nicola Ferri about his inspiring academic journey. Our conversation highlighted the profound impact of mentors in shaping a researcher’s path and how these valuable relationships often endure for years, continuing to influence and inspire.

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Script-prep: Vanessa Bianconi, Mariia Cherska, Azin Kheirkhah, Maria Giovanna Lupo

Interviewer: Azin Kheirkhah

In this conversation with Prof. Katey Rayner, a Chief Scientific Officer at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute, we hear about her career journey, the challenges she’s overcome, and the valuable lessons she’s learned along the way. It might serve as an inspiration for you.

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Script-prep: Alexandr Ceasovschih, Azin Kheirkhah, Elena Rodriguez-Sanchez, Tatyana Storozhenko, Emiel P. C. van der Vorst

Interviewer: Pelin Arabacilar Golforoush

In our first episode, we’re thrilled to speak with Prof. Anne Tybjaerg-Hansen from Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Denmark. With over 40 years of experience in clinical biochemistry and molecular cardiology, she is a true expert in her field. Tune in for an insightful conversation, where Prof. Tybjaerg-Hansen concludes with a powerful message for early career scientists: “Go for it, science is fun!”

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Script-prep: Fotios Barkas, Joana Rita Chora, Azin Kheirkhah, Krishnaraj Rathod, Yusuf Ziya Sener

Interviewer: Antoine Rimbert