Okayama University Graduate Student Selected for ESC Training Program

Chengyu Shi Selected for the ESC Fund Basic Cardiovascular Science Course 2026

Chengyu Shi, a doctoral student from the Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences at Okayama University, has been chosen to participate in the international selection training course, the ESC Fund Basic Cardiovascular Science Course 2026, organized by the European Society of Cardiology (ESC). This prestigious program aims to cultivate cardiovascular researchers globally at a time when there is a notable decline in fundamental cardiovascular research.

Only up to 50 PhD or MD-PhD candidates, as well as young researchers who obtained their doctorate within the last five years, are selected based on merits. Chengyu's participation is fully funded, covering tuition, travel, accommodation, and research training expenses, thanks to support from the ESC Fund and the Novo Nordisk Foundation. Each year, the program has high competition, especially for candidates from Asia, making Chengyu's selection an exceptional achievement.

The training program consists of a one-week intensive on-site course featuring lectures on genetics, molecular biology, preclinical models, regenerative medicine, research methodologies, and regulatory compliance, held from June 10 to 14, 2026, in Nice, France. Following this, participants will undertake a two-week hands-on research internship at a prominent research institution in Europe throughout July to December of the same year.

At Okayama University, Chengyu works within a research lab focused on investigating the efficacy of antiarrhythmic drugs using human heart chips. This lab is internationally recognized for its development and application of microphysiological systems, a technology aimed at drug discovery, toxicity assessment, and personalized medicine. Through his participation in the ESC course, Chengyu will have the opportunity to learn from leading European researchers about the latest methodologies and approaches in cardiovascular basic research, enriching his research experience and further enhancing the university's international collaborative research network.

Professor Ken Takahashi, Chengyu's academic advisor, expressed his joy at Chengyu's selection after a competitive process, stating that this valuable experience will bridge basic and clinical cardiovascular research and significantly contribute to the university's educational and research efforts upon Chengyu's return.

Chengyu himself commented, "I am incredibly honored to be selected for the ESC Basic Cardiovascular Science Course. I hope to gain insights into foundational research methodologies in a European research environment that I can apply to my future work."

As Okayama University continues to strengthen its status as an open and distinctive research institution, the expectations for Chengyu's endeavors are high. The university advocates collaboration for research and innovation, and Chengyu's selection marks a significant step in fostering future researchers at the institution, furthering its commitment to internationalization in academic research.

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Conclusion

Okayama University is committed to supporting innovative research that aligns with sustainable development goals (SDGs) and aims to become a global center for research innovation. Chengyu Shi's selection for the ESC training course is a testament to the university's dedication to nurturing talented researchers and expanding its academic impact.