2016-04-21

On April 6th, Prof. Folkert Kuipers, dean of University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG), Prof. Dr. Elisabeth de Vries, head of the Medical Oncology department, Mrs. Josine van’t Klooster, head of the Healthy Ageing Team, visited SUMC and met with Executive Dean Bian and Li Ka Shing Foundation Representative Dr. Law. The visitors were impressed with SUMC’s innovation in medical education, contribution to society, and improvements in clinical practice.

The guests visited the Affiliated Cancer Hospital and met with its clinical research team. Currently, the Cancer Hospital is using UMCG’s fluorescent dye technique to aid with the early diagnosis of esophageal cancer and lung cancer. With this help, the hospital is able to expand its tools in early diagnosis and treatment decisions, further benefiting our patients. During their short stay, Prof. Kuipers and Prof. Dr. de Vries also gave two seminars, titled “Molecular Imaging in Oncology for Screening, Staging and Treatment Decisions” and “Healthy Ageing Research at UMCG. From Basic Knowledge to Clinical Applications”, respectively.

The UMCG delegation also met with prospective students from SUMC, answering questions about the Joint PhD Program, such as how to select an adviser. The Joint PhD Program started in 2011 and so far have sent 15 students, with three already obtaining their degrees. 

UMCG is one of the largest hospital in the Netherlands. It joined the East-West Alliance in 2013, establishing a long-term cooperation with SUMC. Because of Prof. Kuipers and Prof. Dr. de Vries’ accomplishments in academia and their contribution to the two schools’ collaboration, Dean Bian presented them each with an Honorary Professor title.