Tatjana Rundek

Dr. Tatjana Rundek is Professor of Neurology, Executive Vice Chair of Research and Faculty Affairs, and Director of the Clinical Translational Research Division at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. She serves as Scientific Director of the Evelyn F. McKnight Brain Institute and Director of the Master of Science in Clinical Translational Investigation program.

Education:

• PhD in Neuroscience, Ludwig-Maximillian University, Munich, Germany (1995)
• MD, Medical School University of Zagreb, Croatia (1989)
• Fellowship in Stroke/Epidemiology, Columbia University, New York (2000)
• Fellowship in Stroke, Grossharden Spital, Munich, Germany (1995)
• Residency in Neurology, Medical School University of Zagreb, Croatia (1994)

A vascular neurologist and clinical researcher, Dr. Rundek specializes in stroke, age-related memory loss, and cognitive decline. Her work integrates neuro-vascular research with population studies (NOMAS, INVEST, Einstein Aging Study) to investigate determinants of brain health in aging. She leads international consortia including the NIA Precision Aging Network, emphasizing translational approaches to mitigate cognitive impairment.

Recent publications reveal a strong focus on biomarker discovery (ATN framework), health disparities in neurodegenerative diseases, and vascular risk factors across diverse populations. Her research consistently examines Hispanic/Latino and Black communities, linking social determinants like residential segregation to neurological outcomes.

Scientific Awards:

• AHA Mentor Award
• NIH K24 career development grant
• AHA Cor Vitae for Stroke Award
• Outstanding Woman in Science and Technology (Miami-Dade)
• Women in Academic Medicine Career Achievement Award
• Academy of Science, Engineering and Medicine of Florida membership
• Fulbright Scholarship
• George Soros Scholarship

As Training Director for StrokeNet, NeuroNEXT, and the OneFL Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, Dr. Rundek mentors through NIH-funded programs including the KL2 career development award. Her grant portfolio comprises multiple R01s and leadership roles in NINDS/NIA networks, driving clinical trial infrastructure for stroke and dementia research.

She directs the Evelyn F. McKnight Brain Institute, which unites translational scientists to accelerate research on age-related cognitive decline. Her community engagement includes the "Aging Like a Pro" seminar series, promoting brain health through sleep optimization, mindfulness, and nutrition in partnership with libraries and senior centers.