The NextCardio project creates an international research institute and an excellent initiative at Lucian Blaga University in Sibiu (ULBS). The field addressed is that of health, mainly by associating new endovascular technologies to the methods of computer assistance and 3D simulation in cardiovascular pathologies management (CPM). CMP covers all stages of the medical process, such as preventive medicine, diagnosis, clinical treatments and post-treatment monitoring. The innovative part of this initiative is the close link between medicine, technology and bio-engineering that facilitates interdisciplinary research, application and innovation in treatment equipment, simulation techniques and tools, and patient-centered technological support. The research institute will focus several research centers within ULBS, as defined in the internal regulations, especially those involved in minimal-invasive medicine and will articulate them together with the international team of researchers within this project, in order to define a functional construction capable of providing research services, technology transfer and high scientific value. Through these objectives, ULBS wants to increase and diversify research and innovation performance at national and European level in the field of health, especially in cardiovascular pathology. The main goal of NextCardio is to provide knowledge and solutions for endovascular treatment of cardiovascular diseases through minimally invasive technology (computerised assistance) of innovation, for post-treatment products and services, which can provide a longer and healthier life for the entire population, thus resulting in a better quality of life for each individual, as well as in lower economic and social costs. This has a great impact on society since cardiovascular pathologies are the biggest mortality factor among the population of Romania and Europe. The platform and the results obtained by the project will facilitate the access of companies, hospitals and doctors to the most advanced and state-of-the-art research, experimental development and innovative results of ULBS. In addition, the project is at the crossroads of engineering, bio-engineering and medicine disciplines, thus addressing three very important specialisations, with great potential for research and development for our country. Thus, the project fits perfectly and entirely with the COMPETITIVE OPERATIONAL PROGRAMME 2014-2020 Action 1.1.4-“Accrual of staff with advanced skills from abroad to strengthen R & D capacity”, Investment Priority PI1a: “Improve research and innovation infrastructures and capacities to develop RDI excellence and promote centres of competence in particular those of European interest” because: • Create and support a center of
