Zhen Qian
PhD-candidate, Erasmus MC
Interests
- Pathology
- Whole slide imaging
- Integrated diagnostics
- Digital biomarkers
- Machine Learning
- Deep Learning
- Colorectal cancer
- Histopathological growth patterns
- Colorectal liver metastases
Education
-
MD, 2022
KU Leuven
-
Honours Program: Advanced Training in Biomedical Research, 2020
KU Leuven
Biography
Background
Zhen Qian is a medical professional and researcher, currently a Resident in Training for Clinical Biology at KU Leuven and pursuing a Master of Epidemiology at Erasmus MC. His academic and research career is characterized by a strong foundation in medicine, biomedical research, and artificial intelligence applications in healthcare.
Academic Excellence and Honours Program
Zhen completed his Master of Medicine (MD) at KU Leuven. As part of his academic enrichment, he was selected for the Honours Program: Advanced Training in Biomedical Research, a rigorous program designed for top-performing students with a strong interest in scientific inquiry. Throughout this program, he specialized in translational medical research, focusing on neurobiology of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and therapeutic opportunities of congenital disorders of glycosylation.
Student Researcher and International Research Contributions
Zhen has distinguished himself as a student researcher through extensive involvement in clinical and translational research across multiple domains. His research has been conducted at prestigious institutions, including:
- RSI Academy Melle, where he worked on AI-driven segmentation of robotic-assisted prostatectomy videos.
- Mayo Clinic Clinical Genomics, USA, where he contributed to research on PMM2-CDG, congenital vascular anomalies, and genetic disorders.
- KU Leuven’s Research Group in Experimental Otorhinolaryngology, focusing on pituitary surgery and chronic rhinosinusitis pathomechanisms.
- Mechanical Engineering Technology TC at KU Leuven, where he contributed to 3D shape analysis for designing flexible surgical instruments.
His research efforts have led to multiple peer-reviewed publications, reinforcing his expertise in clinical research, surgical innovation, and AI-driven diagnostics. Additionally, he participated in a Practical Interdisciplinary Project (PiP), working with a cross-functional team to mitigate the adverse effects of the heat island phenomenon on elderly residents in senior care homes.
Research and Innovation in Artificial Intelligence
Currently, Zhen is engaged in cutting-edge research on the application of artificial intelligence in histopathological whole-slide images of colorectal liver metastases and hepatic growth patterns. His work involves advanced image analysis and machine learning techniques to improve diagnostic precision, prognostic assessments, and treatment planning in oncological pathology. His interdisciplinary expertise bridges the gap between clinical medicine, pathology, and AI-driven diagnostics.
Current Training and Professional Development
Zhen is currently:
- A Resident in Training in Clinical Biology at KU Leuven, where he specializes in laboratory medicine, clinical diagnostics, and translational research.
- A Master’s student in Epidemiology at Erasmus MC, focusing on statistical modeling, data-driven healthcare solutions, and evidence-based medicine.
- Actively involved in AI research for histopathological analysis, with a strong emphasis on oncopathology and liver metastases.
Awards and Leadership Roles
Throughout his career, Zhen has received numerous academic and research accolades, including:
- Student Researcher of the Year (2020) at KU Leuven
- First place in the Junior ORSI poster competition (2020)
- Finalist in Belgium’s National Mathematical and Chemical Olympiads
- He has also taken on leadership roles as a member of Junior ORSI and Student Researcher Association Leuven, where he fostered international research collaborations.
Interests
Beyond his medical expertise and in the spirit of “Mens sana in corpore sano”, Zhen has completed a marathon and is currently training for Ironmnan Hamburg 2025 and wants to swim across the English Channel. His other interests are:
- Acoustic guitar and mandolin
- Graphical design and video editing
- Eu Drone License (A1/A3)
- He also holds certifications in robotic anastomosis training, experimental microsurgery, and clinical research methodologies.
Vision
Zhen remains committed to bridging clinical medicine with artificial intelligence and epidemiology, striving to advance personalized medicine and precision diagnostics.
Collaborations
If interested in collaborations, please feel free to contact me!