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Peter J. Joris, PhD

Associate Professor
Maastricht University
Maastricht, Limburg, Netherlands

After obtaining my Master’s degree in Biomedical Sciences magna cum laude at Hasselt University (Belgium), I started my PhD focusing on the effects of diet on “peripheral” vascular function and metabolic health in humans. During my PhD, I have developed as an independent researcher and became the expert and contact of vascular function measurements within the Metabolic Research Unit Maastricht (MRUM). My ultimate goal is to become a leading scientist in the field of translational nutrition, primarily focusing on conditions related to the human vasculature. In order to reach this goal, I decided to visit the internationally highly recognized Center for Functional MRI at the University of California, San Diego (United States). As a visiting graduate student, I learned advanced magnetic resonance imaging methodologies used for the non-invasive assessment of “brain” vascular function and metabolism.

After successfully defending my PhD in 2016, my research is focused on well-controlled trials assessing the effects of novel lifestyle and dietary approaches on vascular function and metabolic health in the periphery as well as in the brain, and cognitive/functional endpoints. For this, I apply novel vascular and magnetic resonance imaging methodologies (at the Scannexus research facilities) to assess brain health factors in fasting conditions, but also in response to a challenge, including intranasal insulin administration (brain insulin sensitivity), stress or tolerance tests. This approach already resulted in various successful research projects under my supervision providing evidence that new-concepts for healthy living play an instrumental role in improving brain health and cognitive performance, thereby contributing to the prevention of (global) cognitive impairment and promoting healthy aging.

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