T32-FUNDED POSTDOCTORAL FELLOWSHIP

Program Details

This is a new program to train the next generation of scientists in the fields of hypertension and blood pressure regulation. These conditions represent enormous health care problems. The new American Heart Association and American College of Cardiology Guidelines now classify almost 50% of the adult population as being hypertensive. Autonomic dysfunction, manifested by syncope, presyncope and postural intolerance, becomes increasingly common with age and is terribly disabling. Despite the commonality of these disorders, their precise etiology remains poorly defined. Moreover, they often associated with and share underlying mechanisms with other cardiovascular and metabolic disorders. It is therefore mandatory that we train and develop outstanding scientists to pursue these related areas of investigation.

• Understand mechanisms of hypertension and end organ damage and the role inflammation and immune activation.
• Conduct translational research involving laboratory, animal and clinical research through the Vanderbilt Autonomic Dysfunction Center.
• Initiate studies on medication-resistant hypertension using the BioVu database, which contains DNA for >300,000 patients and de-identified medical records linked to BioVu.
• Participate in tailored coursework and workshops related to specific areas of investigation.
• Engage in seminars, didactic lectures, and specialized course work devoted to career development, leadership, responsible conduct of research, and work life balance.