Maria Sundvik

Maria Sundvik serves as University Lecturer in the Department of Anatomy at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, and holds the title of Docent at Medicum Helsinki. Her research bridges neurosciences and biomedicine through innovative zebrafish models to investigate histamine receptor systems, neurotransmitter function, and behavioral mechanisms.

Her research portfolio includes:

• Neuropharmacological studies of histamine receptors in zebrafish
• Analysis of aminergic neurotransmitter systems in social behavior
• Developmental neurotoxicology using valproic acid exposure models
• In vivo imaging of neural processes
• Genetic and molecular mechanisms of behavioral phenotypes

Dr. Sundvik's publication record spans 30 works since 2006, with recent focus (2021-2025) on receptor physiology, behavioral genetics, and neurodevelopmental impacts. Her work demonstrates consistent interdisciplinary integration of molecular, anatomical, and behavioral approaches.

Her scientific recognition includes:

• BRSF Novartis Neuroscience prize for Best Doctoral Thesis (2012)
• European Histamine Research Society Young Investigator Award (1st place, 2013)
• Young Histochemist Award (2008)

She has supervised 3 doctoral theses and 9 Master's/Licentiate theses while contributing to medical education through the 'Tablet computers and mobile learning' project (2013-2022). Dr. Sundvik leads research activities within the In Vivo Animal Imaging Platform, providing advanced methodologies for live-animal neuroscience studies.