Sameer Bajikar

Sameer Bajikar, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor in the Departments of Cell Biology and Biomedical Engineering at the University of Virginia. His research focuses on understanding neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorders and Rett syndrome using multidisciplinary approaches combining human stem cells, genetically engineered mouse models, and computational systems biology. He aims to identify key biological pathways for therapeutic intervention.

Education:

• B.S. and Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia
• Postdoctoral Fellowship in Molecular and Human Genetics at Baylor College of Medicine

His research interests include bioinformatics, computational biology, stem cell biology, and translational science. Current projects investigate the GDF11-SMAD3 signaling pathway in Rett syndrome, supported by an Independence Award from the International Rett Syndrome Foundation.

Key Achievements:

• Recipient of Zoghbi Scholar Award and NRSA F32 fellowship
• Developed novel models for MECP2 duplication syndrome and Rett syndrome

He leads the Bajikar Lab, recruiting students to explore neurodevelopmental disorder mechanisms. Grants include studies on GDF11 regulation and therapeutic approaches using antisense oligonucleotides.