The annual Dekker Grants awarded by the Dutch Heart Foundation (Hartstichting) represent not only a meaningful financial stimulus for research, but also a mark of distinction for the researchers involved. Translating fundamental cardiac research into real-world applications remains essential — and with each step, we move closer to improved risk stratification and more effective treatment strategies.

This year, there is particular reason for pride: the Heart Centre of Amsterdam UMC is associated with a significant number of the award-winning research projects. The Dutch Heart Foundation has compiled a comprehensive overview, including accessible summaries of work by, among others, Molly O’Reilly and Bettine van Willigen on this page (NL), as well as the consortia involving Jan Willem Buikema and — on multiple occasions — Jolanda van der Velden, available on this page (NL).

Also worth watching: the aftermovie of the Dekker Grant award ceremony, held in The Hague in early March. –> Ruim 22,5 miljoen euro voor topwetenschappers | Hartstichting