Dirk Lange

Dr. Dirk Lange is a microbiologist who earned his PhD in microbiology and immunology from the University of Western Ontario. Since joining the Department of Urologic Sciences at the University of British Columbia in 2008 as a postdoctoral fellow and transitioning into a faculty position in 2011, he has been instrumental in developing an internationally renowned translational research program at the Stone Centre at Vancouver General Hospital focused on the treatment of kidney stone disease. This unique research program is one of only a handful worldwide dedicated to kidney stone disease that places basic scientists and clinicians side-by-side, allowing for truly translational research. 

One of Dr. Lange’s major contributions to the field has been in the area of ureteral stent biomaterial design, where he has done extensive work on understanding mechanisms that drive ureteral stent-associated complications including bacterial biofilm formation, device encrustation, pain and discomfort. Furthermore, he is actively involved in the development of novel anti-fouling coatings for medical devices including ureteral stents and urinary catheters, as well as the development of a biodegradable ureteral stent. Furthermore, given his background in microbiology and immunology, Dr. Lange’s research program also involves studying the role of the intestinal microbiome and urinary microbiome in urologic disease including kidney stone disease, bladder cancer and kidney transplant rejection.

In recognition of his contributions, Dr. Lange was named a VCHRI Rising Star, Urology Care Foundation Research Scholar and a CIHR New Investigator.