Beerend Hierck

Dr. Beerend Hierck (Assistant Professor at Utrecht University's Faculty of Veterinary Medicine) is a multidisciplinary academic combining educational innovation, 3D technology development, and cardiovascular biology expertise. With a PhD from Leiden University Medical Center and formal teaching credentials since 1991, he leads the Veterinary SkillsLab and co-developed the prize-winning AvatarZOO XR platform for 3D anatomy learning and clinical competence development. His research spans from endothelial cell mechanosensing (2004-2012) to immersive educational technology (2018-present).

• Key research areas: Extended Reality (XR) applications, spatial knowledge acquisition, and endothelial cell biology
• Academic trajectory: Medical Biology (UvA) → Developmental Biology (LUMC) → Educational Technology (UU)
• Notable achievements: International publications (Nature, Arteriosclerosis, Circulation), award-winning teaching, and educational software development

His recent publications demonstrate a consistent focus on 3D visualization in medical education (2020-2023) while maintaining contributions to cardiovascular mechanobiology. Collaborations with Prof. Daniela Salvatori and multiple institutions highlight his interdisciplinary approach.

• Scientific Awards:
  • 2× Prof.dr. G.J. Tammeling price for best LUMC teacher
  • Best teacher of Leiden University (2015)