Ann Raes

Professor Ann Raes is a distinguished faculty member in the Department of Pediatrics at Ghent University's Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, specializing in pediatric nephrology. Her extensive research portfolio demonstrates leadership in clinical studies related to childhood kidney diseases, urinary tract disorders, and transitional care. She maintains active collaborations with the European Pediatric Clinical Trials Network (conect4children) and the Belgian Pediatric Clinical Research Network (BPCRN), contributing significantly to pediatric pharmacological research and clinical trial design.

Dr. Raes' research spans multiple critical areas in pediatric nephrology including nocturnal enuresis, chronic kidney disease in children, pediatric hypertension, and kidney transplantation. Her work on circadian rhythms in enuresis patients and uremic toxin management has advanced understanding of pediatric kidney function. She has made significant contributions to understanding treatment responses to desmopressin therapy, dialysis optimization in children, and the psychosocial impact of chronic kidney disease on families.

Analysis of her recent publications reveals a strong focus on translational research bridging clinical practice and scientific discovery. Her work increasingly incorporates multidisciplinary approaches, examining not only physiological aspects of kidney disease but also the mental health impacts on patients and families. The growing emphasis on patient-centered outcomes and quality of life measures reflects evolving trends in pediatric nephrology research.

Professor Raes actively participates in mentoring the next generation of researchers through the European Pediatric Clinical Trials Network and has contributed to numerous PhD projects within Ghent University's pediatric department. Her leadership in clinical trial networks demonstrates commitment to improving research infrastructure for rare pediatric conditions.

Her work extends to multiple research teams including the Pediatric Nephrology Research Group at Ghent University Hospital, where she collaborates with urologists, psychologists, and pharmacologists to address complex pediatric kidney conditions. She participates in international consortia focused on improving clinical trial design for pediatric rare diseases.