Lien Van Laer was a Belgian 2024-25 Fulbright Research Scholar at Johns Hopkins University. In 2016, Lien Van Laer graduated from the University of Ghent with a Master’s degree in Rehabilitation Sciences and Physical Therapy. From 2016 to 2020, she worked as a physical therapist in a rehabilitation center. In November 2020, she started a PhD at the University of Antwerp under the supervision of Prof. Vereeck, Prof. Hallemans and Prof. Van Rompaey on risk factors for the development of chronic dizziness after a vestibular disorder. In addition to conducting the research and publishing the study results, Lien was involved in teaching and organizing courses both nationally and internationally during her doctoral studies.
Q: “Can you briefly describe your grant project?”
My Fulbright project was the perfect bridge between my PhD research and postdoctoral studies. During my PhD, we investigated risk factors for developing chronic dizziness after acute unilateral vestibulopathy. We hypothesized that reduced semicircular canal function and limited movement exposure (measured with an accelerometer on the upper leg) would increase the risk of chronic dizziness. However, this was not the case, leading us to explore alternative outcome measures, such as otolith function and head kinematics. This motivated me to pursue a Fulbright postdoctoral fellowship at Johns Hopkins University with Professors Michael Schubert and Amir Kheradmand. Professor Kheradmand’s team developed the Video Ocular Counter Roll (vOCR), a novel bedside test for otolith function, while Professor Schubert’s team specializes in head kinematics during balance tests in vestibulopathy. During my stay, I gained experience with both methods. Our goal is to publish a study comparing vOCR and head kinematics between healthy controls and individuals with vestibulopathy and to bring the vOCR and head kinematics methods to our labs in Belgium.
Q. “How did you hear about the Fulbright Program”?
The University of Antwerp regularly shares funding opportunity overviews. I was already in contact with Professor Schubert when I came across the Fulbright Program notification. As it was a perfect fit for the project, I immediately decided to apply.
Q. “What have you accomplished during your time in the USA? What can you tell us about the initial outcomes of your program?”
During my stay, I gained experience with two new methods: the Video Ocular Counter Roll (vOCR) test and head kinematics during balance assessments. Our goal is to publish a study comparing vOCR and head kinematics between healthy controls and individuals with vestibulopathy. Additionally, we aim to integrate these methods into future research proposals and eventually introduce them to our labs in Belgium. I also got the chance to work on two other manuscripts—one analyzing an existing dataset on dynamic visual acuity in individuals with vestibulopathy, and another contributing a book chapter on the vOCR test.
Q. “Can you describe a typical day in your life in the USA?”
My day usually started with a coffee and a healthy breakfast before taking the university shuttle to work, arriving around 8:00 AM—just in time for a second coffee and a productive start. My workday consisted of team meetings, brainstorming research ideas, analyzing data, and preparing manuscripts. Lunch was often a simple yet satisfying bagel—something I definitely miss in Belgium. After work, I’d unwind with a yoga session at a nearby studio, then relax at home, chatting with my roommate or reading on the couch with the cat by my side.
Q. “Has the United States been what you expected? In what ways has life in the USA surprised you, either for its similarities to or differences from your own culture?”
Life in the United States was definitely different from life in Belgium. I appreciated the well-organized cities and the warm, welcoming nature of the people. One thing that stood out to me was how naturally humor is woven into everyday conversations—Americans have a great sense of humor and always seem to find a way to add small jokes into their interactions.
Q. “What advice would you give to someone who is considering applying to the Fulbright Program?”
A Fulbright experience is truly one of a kind. Professionally, it has been incredibly enriching and rewarding—not only did I gain valuable knowledge, but I also connected with so many inspiring people whom I will undoubtedly collaborate with in the future. Beyond the professional benefits, stepping out of my comfort zone for four months and exploring a new city on my own was an unforgettable adventure. I also loved being part of the Fulbright network—the events they organized and the chance to exchange experiences with fellow grantees made the journey even more special.
Articles are written by Fulbright grantees and do not reflect the opinions of the Fulbright Commission, the grantees’ host institutions, or the U.S. Department of State.