Viji Santhakumar

Professor with a deep interest in understanding the complexities of the human brain, Viji Santhakumar, Ph.D., serves as the Vice Chair and Professor in the Molecular Cell & Systems Biology Department at the University of California, Riverside. Her academic journey is marked by a commitment to unraveling the physiological mechanisms that contribute to neurological disorders, particularly traumatic brain injury and epilepsy. In addition to her role at UC Riverside, Dr. Santhakumar is an Adjunct Associate Professor in the Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, and Neuroscience at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School. Her dual appointments reflect her interdisciplinary approach and dedication to advancing the field of neuroscience through collaborative research efforts. Dr. Santhakumar's research is centered on the intricate workings of inhibitory circuits and synaptic physiology. She employs network computational analysis to explore how these elements contribute to the pathology of brain injuries and epileptic conditions. Her work aims to bridge the gap between basic neuroscience and clinical applications, striving to develop therapeutic strategies that can mitigate the impact of these debilitating conditions. Her contributions to the field have been recognized through numerous publications and presentations at national and international conferences. Dr. Santhakumar's research not only enhances our understanding of brain function but also holds promise for improving the quality of life for individuals affected by neurological disorders. Her dedication to mentoring the next generation of scientists is evident in her active involvement in guiding graduate students and postdoctoral fellows in their research endeavors.