Dr. Kumar Vaibhav is an Assistant Professor on tenure track in the Department of Neurosurgery at the Medical College of Georgia (MCG) at Augusta University, where he also holds an adjunct position in the Department of Oral Biology and Diagnostic Sciences.
He is also affiliated with Transdisciplinary Research Initiative in Inflammaging and Brain Aging (TRIBA) and The Graduate School at Augusta University. His academic journey has been marked by a strong foundation in toxicology, neuroanatomy, immunology and neuropharmacology, leading to a significant focus on neuroscience research, particularly in the areas of TBI, neurovascular injury, neuroimmunology, senescence, PTE, neurodegeneration and the effects of hypoxia and hypoglycemia on neuronal injury.
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Dr. Vaibhav's educational background is diverse and multidisciplinary. He completed his Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Vinoba Bhave University in India, followed by a Master of Science in Toxicology from Jamia Hamdard (Hamdard University), New Delhi. His early career involved practical experience in the pharmaceutical industry, where he worked on analytical development and bioequivalence studies. He earned his Ph.D. in Toxicology with a specialization in Stroke and Neuropharmacology from Jamia Hamdard, which laid the groundwork for his future research endeavors.
Following his doctoral studies, Dr. Vaibhav pursued two post-doctoral fellowships. The first was at the Dr. B R Ambedkar Center for Biomedical Research at the University of Delhi, focusing on the interplay between hypoxia-hypoglycemia and neuronal injury. The second fellowship at Augusta University emphasized neurovascular injury and neuroimmunology, areas that would define his research focus.
Kumar Vaibhav's professional development activities focus on enhancing his skills as a leader, reviewer, moderator, speaker, and mentor. His goals are driven by commitments to research, leadership, education, institution, and mentorship. He has participated in various programs to improve team building, diversity, and leadership skills, including “SoftskillsTM Percipio” and the “Research Leadership course” by Robel Consulting LLC.
Vaibhav has given numerous invited talks, chaired symposiums, and completed workshops on molecular docking and simulation. He has reviewed and edited many manuscripts and grants, serving as an Associate Editor for several journals such as Frontiers in Neuroscience, Biomedicines etc. He has also been actively involved in institutional committees and professional societies, contributing to the scientific community and mentoring students.
He has received awards such as the AURI Emerging Scientist Award 2020 and the Outstanding Young Basic Science Faculty Award 2022, reflecting his significant contributions to professional development.
Vaibhav has been actively involved in teaching at Augusta University (AU) since 2017, focusing on both research mentorship and direct teaching. As an Assistant Professor, his efforts include mentoring undergraduate and graduate students, medical scholars, research staff, and postdoctoral fellows. He delivers didactic lectures in the DCG graduate curriculum.
Vaibhav has expanded his teaching and mentorship at Augusta University (AU), focusing on research mentorship and direct teaching. He mentors undergraduate and graduate students, medical scholars, research staff, and postdoctoral fellows, using innovative instructional approaches to maximize engagement and success. His efforts are reflected in positive feedback and evaluations.
Since joining AU as an Assistant Professor in 2020, he has mentored numerous students, contributing to publications, presentations, and career progression. Vaibhav has also served on PhD Thesis Committees and received the 2022 Outstanding Young Basic Science Faculty Award. His commitment to diversity, inclusion, and leadership enhances his teaching and mentorship.
Kumar Vaibhav's service statement highlights his commitment to advancing Augusta University's (AU) mission through faculty participation and knowledge dissemination in Neuroscience. He actively contributes to various institutional, national, and international committees. He has served on AU committees, reviewed award applications, and participated in admissions interviews. He is a dedicated member of the National Neurotrauma Society and other professional societies, contributing to mentorship and knowledge dissemination. Vaibhav is also involved in community service, particularly in judging school science fairs. His efforts exemplify his dedication to AU's vision and global student success.
Vaibhav lab has been dedicated to inclusion of students in research and scientific work and to developing a research aptitude to fulfill their career goals since 2014. Our students have contributed to 23 publications, 8 talks in conferences (5 international, 1 national and 2 regional), and 17 posters (7 international, 4 national and 6 regional) and 4 individual awards in conferences within the last five years. Students and staffs who completed training in the lab, have been successful in their careers and currently working in the reputed institutions and medical school.
Our constant effort to adapt to our mentorship and teaching according to the individual’s need and background helped us to achieve this success. In summary, Vaibhav’s mentorship at institutional and national level represents a noteworthy contribution to the AU vision of education and has been instrumental to our students’ success and growth. For the effort as research faculty, Dr. Vaibhav has been awarded 2022 outstanding Young Basic Science Faculty Award by MCG.
Dr. Vaibhav is the director of Brain Injury, Senescence, and Translational Neuroscience Lab in the Department of Neurosurgery. As an Assistant Professor in the Department of Neurosurgery, Kumar Vaibhav has secured continuous extramural funding since 2017, focusing on high-impact research in Neuroscience, particularly in Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). His lab's pioneering work on cannabinoid receptors in brain macrophages has established him as a leader in this field.
Since his promotion in 2020, he has significantly advanced understanding of immune responses post-trauma. Despite COVID-19 challenges, his achievements include securing multiple grants, publishing 72 peer-reviewed articles (Over 4500 citations with h index 34 in Nov. 2024), delivering numerous invited talks, and chairing symposiums. He actively mentors students, contributing to their success in research. Vaibhav is committed to professional development and has received notable awards for his contributions to science.
Dr. Vaibhav's research is primarily centered on understanding the mechanisms underlying neurovascular injuries and the immune response in the nervous system. His work is particularly relevant to conditions such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, and neurodegenerative diseases, where both neuronal damage and inflammatory responses play critical roles. . His work is characterized by a rigorous experimental approach, often involving in vitro and in vivo models to study neurovascular and neuroimmune interactions. His research findings have implications for developing new therapeutic strategies to treat various neurological disorders. By identifying the molecular targets involved in neurovascular injuries and the immune response, Dr. Vaibhav's work paves the way for potential interventions that could enhance recovery and improve patient outcomes.
Neurovascular Injury:
Dr. Vaibhav investigates the cellular and molecular mechanisms that contribute to neurovascular injury after TBI and hemorrhages. This includes studying the Neuroinflammation, blood-brain barrier's integrity and how it is compromised during pathological conditions. His research aims to identify potential therapeutic targets that could mitigate or prevent injury, thereby improving outcomes for patients suffering from cerebrovascular disorders.
TBI & Neurodegeneration:
One of the focus area of research in the lab is to explore chronic pathology post-TBI and TBI-associated neurodegeneration. The lab is actively exploring the cerebral atrophy, behavioral deficits and immunosenescence in chronic period.
Neuroimmunology:
Another significant aspect of Dr. Vaibhav's research is neuroimmunology, which examines the interactions between the nervous system and the immune system. He explores how immune responses can exacerbate or ameliorate neuronal injury. By understanding these interactions, Dr. Vaibhav aims to develop strategies that could harness the immune system to promote neuronal repair and recovery following injury.
Hypoxia & Hypoglycemia:
His earlier studies on hypoxia and hypoglycemia have provided insights into how these conditions lead to neuronal injury. Dr. Vaibhav's research has shown that the brain's response to low oxygen and glucose levels can trigger a cascade of neurodegenerative processes. By elucidating these pathways, he seeks to identify novel neuroprotective strategies that could be employed in clinical settings.
Stroke & Neuropharmacology:
Dr. Vaibhav's Ph.D. work focused on stroke and neuropharmacology, where he investigated the pharmacological agents that could potentially protect neurons from ischemic damage. His findings contribute to the broader understanding of how certain drugs can modulate neuroinflammation and promote neuronal survival during and after a stroke.
Dr. Vaibhav is known for his collaborative spirit, often working with colleagues from various disciplines, including neurology, immunology, biochemistry, vascular biology, neuroscience, radiology and pharmacology. This interdisciplinary approach enriches his research and fosters innovation, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of complex neurological conditions.
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Looking forward, Dr. Vaibhav aims to expand his research into the role of other organs in neuroinflammatory processes and neurovascular health. His lab has expanded the work in TBI-induced senescence and neurodegeneration. He is also interested in exploring the potential of regenerative medicine and stem cell therapies in promoting recovery from neurovascular injuries.
In addition to his research, Dr. Vaibhav is dedicated to teaching and mentoring students and trainees in the field of neuroscience. He believes in fostering the next generation of scientists and clinicians who will continue to advance our understanding of the nervous system and its disorders.
Dr. Kumar Vaibhav's research at Augusta University represents a significant contribution to the field of neuroscience. His work not only enhances our understanding of the underlying mechanisms of neurological disorders but also holds promise for developing new therapeutic strategies that could ultimately improve patient care. As he continues to explore these critical areas of research, Dr. Vaibhav remains committed to advancing the field of neuroscience and training future scientists.
Lab Staffs
Mayuri Gulhane
Mayuri Gulhane is a Research Associate in the Department of Neurosurgery, currently focused on “Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)”, TBI-induced retinopathy, Histology, Flow Cytometry, PCRs, Cell culture and other laboratorial work. With a strong academic background in Veterinary Science (BVSc) and a Master's degree (MVSC) in Animal Biotechnology, she brings a unique interdisciplinary approach to her research. Her work aims to deepen the understanding of neuropathological conditions resulting from brain injuries, contributing to innovative treatments and enhanced recovery.
Tabitha Royal
Tabitha Royal is a research associate in Vaibhav's Lab at MCG-Neurosurgery, Augusta University, where she has been a member of the lab staff since April 2024. She earned her Bachelor's degree in Pharmacy (B. Pharm) from the Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani, in 2021, followed by a Master's degree in Neuroscience (MSc.) from Tel Aviv University in 2023. Tabitha specializes in molecular biology techniques and histology, assists with the maintenance of the mouse colony, and is skilled in mouse handling and the induction of Traumatic Brain Injury through controlled cortical impact, contributing to the lab’s research efforts.
Medical Students
Mario Espinosa
Liam Goldman
Undergraduate Students
Manuela Guzman Zabala
She is a Junior year student and a first graduate in the family, exploring circulatory defects post-TBI
Tajman Randhawa
He is also a Junior student and exploring the sexual dimorphism in brain injury.
Sriram Budim
He is a sophomore student and working on neurodegeneration.
Vibha Amble
She is a junior student and worked on cerebral atrophy post-TBI.
Shreya Sunil
She is a sophomore student and working on neuroinflammation.
https://www.augusta.edu/faculty/directory/view.php?id=KVAIBHAV
Eurekalert!AAAS: https://www.eurekalert.org/multimedia/688393
Jagwire (March 8, 2021) https://jagwire.augusta.edu/cbd-reduces-plaque-improves-cognition-in-model-of-familial-alzheimers/
Mentioned my name as a co-author of study.
The Nation (May 19, 2021): https://nation.com.pk/19-May-2021/cannabinoids-may-help-limit-damage-to-brain-injuries
Ideahunter Science (May 17, 2021): https://ideahuntr.com/cannabinoids-may-help-limit-secondary-damage-of-traumatic-brain-injuries/
JagWire (Nov 17, 2020): https://jagwire.augusta.edu/cannabinoids-may-help-limit-secondary-damage-of-tbis/
Eurelkalert!AAAS (Nov 17, 2020): https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/753893
NRTimes (Nov 19, 2020): https://www.nrtimes.co.uk/cannabinoids-may-help-limit-secondary-damage-of-tbis/
Cannabishealth (Nov 19, 2020):
https://cannabishealthnews.co.uk/2020/11/19/cannabinoids-may-help-limit-secondary-damage-of-tbis/
European Higher Education Organization (Jan 14, 2021): https://eurohighereducation.com/2021/01/14/faculty-recognized-with-augusta-university-research-institute-awards/
MedicalXpress (Apr 13, 2018): https://medicalxpress.com/news/2018-04-receptor-red-chili-pepper-tbi.html
JagWire (Apr 13, 2018): http://jagwire.augusta.edu/archives/52693
Medical news (Apr 13, 2018): https://www.news-medical.net/news/20180413/Receptor-that-detects-heat-of-red-chili-pepper-may-help-protect-the-brain-after-TBI.aspx
WHO (COVID-19, Global literature on coronavirus disease, Article | WHO COVID | ID: covidwho-638503) https://pesquisa.bvsalud.org/global-literature-on-novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov/resource/en/covidwho-638503
Jagwire (July 16, 2020) https://jagwire.augusta.edu/cbd-may-help-avert-lung-destruction-in-covid-19/ (Mentioned my name as a co-author of study)
Research Article published (July 8, 2020) https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/abs/10.1089/can.2020.0043
Science daily/UGA (Feb 15, 2018): https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/02/180215105742.htm
Mentioned my name as a co-author of study in reference section.
Meta fact (May 28, 2018): https://metafact.io/users/kumar-vaibhav
