Natasha Kumar

Dr. Natasha Kumar is a researcher and academic at UNSW Sydney, affiliated with the School of Medical Sciences (Neuroscience specialisation). Her work focuses on cellular and physiological mechanisms of autonomic systems, particularly respiratory chemoreception and glucose counterregulation. She holds a BMedSc (Hons1) and PhD from the University of Sydney. Her research investigates how autonomic reflexes maintain homeostasis, with applications to respiratory disorders, diabetes, and hypertension.

• Current roles include Honours convenor for Neuroscience and teaching in pharmacology/neurosciences.
• Research grants include funding from the NHMRC, ARC, and industry partners.
• Supervises PhD and Honours students in projects related to chemoreceptors, neuropeptides, and respiratory physiology.

Key research themes include: inhibitory neuropeptides in chemoreceptors, chronic hypercapnia effects on respiratory neurons, and neuropeptide roles in glucose regulation. Her lab uses advanced techniques like mouse genetics and in situ hybridization.