About
Sjacko Sobczak is a Professor in Dementia, Mental Health, and Behavior at Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences (RUAS). She also serves as an Elderly Psychiatrist at Mondriaan and a Senior Researcher at Maastricht University. Her work focuses on neuropsychiatric symptoms in dementia patients and traumatic stress in aging populations.
- PhD in Biological Vulnerability in Bipolar Disorders (Maastricht University, 2002)
- Specialized in Psychiatry (2007-2011)
- Trained in Biological Health and Exercise Sciences (1993-1997)
- Medical Degree (Maastricht University, 2000-2005)
Her research explores the intersection of dementia, PTSD, and behavioral challenges in older adults. She leads the global ON TRACK collaboration under the Global Collaboration on Traumatic Stress (GCTS) to advance trauma research in aging populations. Key areas include diagnostic accuracy, biomarkers, and trauma-sensitive care models.
Recent publications highlight her global leadership in diagnosing and treating PTSD in dementia patients, with systematic reviews on cognitive impacts, comorbidities, and EMDR interventions. The articles reflect interdisciplinary research spanning psychiatry, neuroscience, and geriatric care innovations.
Notable professional contributions include:
- Board Member, Dutch Society for Psychiatry (NVvP) Geriatric Psychiatry Department (2022-present)
- Founder of 'The Week of Geriatric Psychiatry' (2023)
- Member of National Science Council DZEP (2023-present)
She collaborates extensively through Rotterdam UAS's Research Centre Innovations in Care, integrating students into practice-oriented research on dementia-related problem behaviors and moral stress in care environments.
