Specialization
Focus of research
Research Focus:
Dr. Tan investigates the regulation of smooth muscle cell dynamics in cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis and aortic aneurysms. Her work includes the recent identification of a non-canonical role for the transcriptional regulator PRDM16 as a key driver of smooth muscle cell phenotypic switching in atherosclerosis. Her research bridges large-scale omics data with clinical samples and mechanistic molecular analyses, enabled by international collaborations across basic and clinical science.
Short CV:
Dr. Tan obtained her Ph.D. from the University of Amsterdam (2021), where she investigated the post-transcriptional regulation of cholesterol and its impact on endothelial cell function. She then completed her postdoctoral training with Prof. Patrick Seale at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, U.S.A. (2025), where she conceived her research line on key drivers of smooth muscle cell phenotypic switching in atherosclerosis. Dr. Tan has since joined the Amsterdam UMC, where her research now focuses on the mechanisms governing smooth muscle cell plasticity in both atherosclerosis and aneurysm formation.
Other professional activities:
- Young Amsterdam Cardiovascular Science (ACS) board member
- Scientist, Targeted Cardiovascular Risk Reduction (TRAIN) health awareness program
- North American Vascular Biology Organization (NAVBO) Educational Committee member