Global education in perfusion: MUSC Extracorporeal Science Program

The Master of Science in Extracorporeal Science (ECS) program at MUSC is an online, distance-based curriculum aimed to meet the growing needs of the international perfusion and critical care communities. For Phoebe Hafner, CCP (ANZ), ECS Class of 2024, the program’s academic rigor, mentorship, and international collaboration impacted not only her professional growth but also her aspirations for the future of the field.

What inspired you to pursue the Master of Science in Extracorporeal Science (ECS) program at MUSC?

At the time I gained a trainee position [in Australia], the local training pathway and eligibility requirements for becoming a certified clinical perfusionist were undergoing change. The field, though incredibly specialized and critical in nature, offered no formal postgraduate academic program for clinical perfusionists locally. Recognizing this need, the Australian and New Zealand College of Perfusionists (ANZCP) endorsed the ECS program at MUSC - a program deeply connected to one of the world’s most established cardiovascular perfusion programs, known for its academic rigor and outstanding faculty. This endorsement, coupled with my desire to advance my clinical and academic knowledge, made the decision to pursue the ECS program an easy one.

Did you find the curriculum's flexibility helpful for balancing your studies with other commitments? Were you able to engage effectively with faculty?

Balancing full-time clinical work alongside postgraduate studies was undoubtedly challenging, but the ECS program was designed to accommodate working professionals, with the flexibility to plan coursework around my own schedule. What stood out most was the supportiveness of the faculty—many of whom come from clinical backgrounds themselves and truly understood the demands of the profession. Having a dedicated faculty advisor throughout the program provided a consistent point of connection, encouragement, and mentorship, which made a significant difference in helping me stay grounded and supported during my studies.

What was one of the most rewarding aspects of the program? How has it helped you reach your professional goals?

One of the most rewarding aspects of the ECS program was the opportunity to learn from exceptional faculty and access educational content shaped by MUSC’s long-standing leadership in cardiovascular perfusion education. The depth of knowledge I gained allowed me to grow not only in technical proficiency but also in the way I thought about the future of our profession.

As a perfusionist in a field that is still emerging in many parts of the world, the program helped me see the broader possibilities—how international collaboration, education, and advocacy can drive forward higher standards for safety, quality, and recognition in perfusion practice globally. That perspective has had a profound influence on both my professional growth and my aspirations for the future of the field.

What advice would you give to incoming students about succeeding in the program?

My advice would be to engage deeply—with the content, with your peers, and with your own learning journey. Try to apply what you’re learning directly in your clinical practice—this not only reinforces your understanding but also makes the coursework immediately relevant. Already practicing as health care professionals, the ECS students were able to bring insights from our own experiences, which made for a uniquely rich learning environment.

It’s also important to keep things in perspective. The coursework is complex and at times overwhelming, but the learning objectives are a helpful compass—use them to stay focused on the bigger picture. Be proactive in communicating your learning needs. The style and structure of the program may differ from what you’re used to, so enter with an open mind but, most importantly, don’t hesitate to reach out if you need support.

Since graduating, what is the one takeaway or lesson that continues to influence your professional practice?

The most enduring lesson I carry with me is the understanding that nothing we do happens in isolation. As perfusionists, we are just one part of a highly coordinated and interdependent team, and patient safety relies on the collective contributions of every member. Every decision, every action, every moment of communication contributes to a shared goal: the best possible outcome for our patients. That perspective keeps me grounded and is a constant reminder that human element must always remain at the center of our practice.

What is your current professional role and the key responsibilities you manage?

Since graduating, I’ve been privileged in gaining the role of Senior Paediatric Perfusionist at the Queensland Children’s Hospital - a role that continually challenges me but also brings immense fulfillment. In this role, I’m responsible for the conduct and oversight of cardiopulmonary bypass during complex paediatric cardiac surgeries, employing highly individualized perfusion strategies and advanced techniques, including Deep Hypothermic Circulatory Arrest, selective regional perfusion, and intraoperative blood management. I also have a key role in the extracorporeal life support (ECLS) service, caring for critically ill patients on ECMO, and participate in a 24/7 on-call roster.

Beyond the clinical setting, I contribute to the ongoing professional growth of our department – participating in education sessions, supporting quality improvement initiatives, and helping integrate emerging best practices into clinical care. I’m also deeply committed to contributing to the broader perfusion community, having become a full fellow of the ANZCP. I’m honored to serve our professional body through my work on the editorial team of the ANZCP Gazette and recently joining the Scientific Committee for our ANZCP Annual Scientific Meeting.