Anna Pfenniger

Anna Pfenniger, MD, PhD, serves as Assistant Professor in the Department of Medicine (Cardiology division) at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine. Board-certified in Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Disease, and Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology by the ABIM, she maintains active clinical and research roles within the institution.

Her academic foundation includes:

• MD from University of Geneva (2008)
• PhD from University of Geneva (2012)
• Postdoctoral Fellowship in Cardiovascular Research at NYU (2013)
• Internal Medicine Residency at University of Massachusetts (2016)
• Cardiology Fellowship at Northwestern University (2019)
• Advanced Fellowship in Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology at Northwestern University (2021)

Dr. Pfenniger's research integrates cardiac electrophysiology with advanced materials science, focusing on atrial fibrillation mechanisms, oxidative stress pathways, and next-generation medical devices. Her work spans fundamental molecular investigations to translational engineering applications, particularly in developing stretchable and bioresorbable electronic systems for cardiac monitoring and therapy. This interdisciplinary approach bridges clinical cardiology with bioengineering to address unmet needs in arrhythmia management.

Recent publications (2024-2025) reveal a pronounced trend toward engineering-cardiology convergence, with significant contributions in liquid metal-based stretchable electronics, millimeter-scale bioresorbable optoelectronic systems, and clinical analyses of subcutaneous ICD devices. These works demonstrate consistent focus on device innovation for electrotherapy while maintaining strong clinical relevance through human studies and healthcare system analyses.

Professional engagement includes:

• Member of HRS Young Investigator Award Committee (2024-Present)
• Editorial Board Member for Circulation Research and AJP-Cell Physiology (2024-Present)
• Active membership in Cardiac Electrophysiological Society (2020-Present), Heart Rhythm Society (2017-Present), and American Heart Association (2010-Present)