Message from the Director

Cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of death in both men and women across the nation despite remarkable progress in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the heart and blood vessels.

Researchers in the UW Cardiovascular Research Center (CVRC) strive to reduce the incidence and effects of these debilitating diseases by developing new, more effective approaches to treatment and prevention.

The Center’s success in these areas is a result of its unique approach to research. A cross-section of investigators from many scientific fields collaborates at the Center, focusing efforts on combating one disease. The CVRC allows researchers–studying independently and in concert–to examine the effects of cardiovascular disease, to track it on the most basic cellular levels, and to explore new strategies for treatment.

We have made significant strides in better understanding heart disease by creating an environment for basic science and clinical investigators to collaborate. We have achieved excellence in fundamental research and in clinical care, and we are excited to be able to translate research successes into improved treatment.

Héctor H. Valdivia, MD, PhD
Director, UW Cardiovascular Research Center
Professor, Department of Medicine

CVRC Center Administrator

Eric Schafer has a B.A. in English from the University of Wisconsin — Eau Claire. Before joining the CVRC, Eric was the assistant to the director of the Waisman Center at UW–Madison where he administered numerous projects and initiatives, including the T32 Postdoctoral Training Program in Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research. Eric enjoys spending time with his family and has a passion for tabletop roleplaying games. Email

CVRC Administrative Specialist

Katie Randall has a B.S. in Health Care Administration from the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire.  Before joining the CVRC, Katie resided in the Department of Radiology at UW-Madison and also served as a Nursing Home Administrator for a long-term care facility in St. Paul, MN.  Katie enjoys spending time with her family and multiple outdoor activities. Email