During National Postdoc Appreciation Week, we are excited to shine a spotlight on the postdoctoral researchers at Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences. Postdocs are a vital part of our institute: they contribute to groundbreaking research, mentor young scientists, and bring new perspectives. In this series of short articles, we introduce some of our postdocs to you. We asked them about their research, their motivations, and their experiences as postdocs. Get to know the people behind the science and be inspired by their stories! Today in the spotlight: Kennedy Silva Ramos, Postdoctoral researcher at Physiology.

Kennedy Silva Ramos
Kennedy Silva Ramos

What is the most important or interesting topic you are currently working on, and why does it appeal to you?
I am currently leading the GENIALITY trial, a Phase II clinical study investigating GeranylGeranylAcetone as a preventive therapy for atrial fibrillation in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. What excites me about this project is its translational nature: it builds on pre-clinical insights from our team and brings them directly into the clinical setting.

What impact do you hope your research will have on the field of cardiovascular science or on society?
Unfortunately, the effectiveness of current rhythm control treatments for atrial fibrillation remains suboptimal. My hope is that the GENIALITY trial will contribute to more effective and tailored treatment strategies, ultimately improving patient outcomes and reducing the overall burden of atrial fibrillation on both individuals and society.​

What do you enjoy most or find most challenging about working as a postdoc, and do you have any tips for other early-career researchers?
What I enjoy most about being a postdoc is the opportunity to shape my own research path. While it can feel challenging at first, this stage offers a valuable balance of autonomy and responsibility. You are able to define your niche, take initiative, and make independent decisions. My advice for early-career researchers is to follow your passion: this is your best compass.

Postdoc appreciation week
From 15–19 September 2025, the Netherlands will host the first edition of Postdoc
Appreciation Week NL (PAW_NL). 

Events will be taking place accross the country. This is your opportunity to
connect, learn, and celebrate the contributions of postdoctoral researchers at
both local and national level

The program is published on the LinkedIn page Postdoc Appreciation Week NL and on the PostdocNL website Announcing Postdoc Appreciation Week – POSTDOCNL.

Photo: Adobe Stock