This is the PhD project of Fanny D’Hondt. The aim of the project is to design and train advanced AI models for the prediction of clinically significant prostate cancer.

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Objective

In her PhD, Fanny will train AI models for the prediction of clinically significant prostate cancer. These AI models use clinical features (e.g., screening results from urology, radiology, and laboratory) and deep learning features (i.e., abstract features extracted from the prostate MRI scan).

Impact and future directions

This project has the potential to significantly enhance prostate cancer screening. By utilizing AI models, doctors will be able to make more informed decisions about when a biopsy is necessary, hereby reducing the number of unnecessary procedures.

General info and contact

RADar investigator: Ir. Fanny D’Hondt

Academic Promotors (VUB): Prof. Dr. Bart Jansen and Prof. Dr. Ir. Jef Vandemeulebroucke

Industrial Promotor (AZ Delta): Prof. Dr. Ir. Peter De Jaeger and Prof. Dr. MD. Geert Martens

Timeline: August 2024 – August 2028

Status: The project started in August 2024. As a first step, Fanny will collect data and train some initial AI models.

Funding: This project is funded by a 4-year Baekeland grant from VLAIO.