Raj Rajakumar

Dr. Raj Rajakumar is an Associate Professor at Western University's Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, cross-appointed with the Department of Psychiatry. His work focuses on molecular mechanisms underlying schizophrenia symptoms and autism neurobiology, employing animal models to study drug effects and neural signaling. He holds a PhD from the University of Western Ontario, with prior degrees in M.B.B.S. (University of Peradeniya) and M.Sc. (University of Western Ontario).

Educations:

• Ph.D., Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario
• M.Sc., Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario
• M.B.B.S., Medicine, University of Peradeniya

Research Interests:

• Molecular pathways in schizophrenia symptom manifestation
• Neurobiological basis of autism spectrum disorders
• Pharmacological interventions using antipsychotics and psychotropic drugs
• Neuroimaging techniques (fMRI, MRS) to study brain connectivity

His research combines molecular biology, neuroanatomy, and behavioral assays in animal models to explore schizophrenia pathophysiology. Recent work includes maternal immune activation effects on fetal brain development, cannabinoid impact on executive function, and white matter inflammation in Alzheimer's models. Collaborations with Dr. W.J. Rushlow and others highlight translational research in neuropsychiatric disorders.

Key contributions include automated MRI algorithms for medial temporal lobe analysis and longitudinal studies of glutamatergic deficits in schizophrenia. His work bridges basic science with clinical applications in mental health.

Dr. Rajakumar's lab focuses on understanding brain circuitry disruptions in psychiatric disorders, with implications for novel therapeutic targets. No formal advisees are listed, but his research team actively engages in interdisciplinary collaborations.