Researcher Spotlight: Venkatagiri Krishnamurthy

What is your professional background? 
I am a biomedical engineer by training, with a research focus on developing novel MRI methodologies and techniques to better understand brain functioning in aging and aging-related diseases. I completed my doctoral work through the joint biomedical engineering program at the University of Texas at Arlington and UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas. I then pursued my postdoctoral training in Dr. Gopinath’s lab in the Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences at Emory University, followed by more advanced training as a research associate and instructor in Dr. Crosson’s lab at the Atlanta VA Center for Visual and Neurocognitive Rehabilitation and the Department of Neurology at Emory University.

In what division do you work, and who is your mentor? 
I am an assistant professor in the Division of Geriatrics and Gerontology. I believe that learning never ends, and I consider any and all from whom I continue to learn as my mentors.

Briefly describe your research. Why is it important? 
My research program primarily focuses on developing MRI-centered multimodal brain imaging tools and methodologies to elucidate brain functioning in aging, stroke, and stroke rehabilitation. Given that MRI approaches are non-invasive, safe and patient friendly, it provides the versatility to develop clinically translatable, powerful diagnostic and prognostic markers to characterize brain functioning in diseased states and its response to various treatments.

What do you like most about Emory? 
I enjoy the rich research and collaboration opportunities that Emory offers.

What is your favorite movie or TV show? 
I look forward to and really enjoy every week’s “Saturday Night Live.”

What do you like to do in your spare time?
I enjoy a wide variety of activities that include hiking and exploring new parks, visiting museums, international art shows, musicals and broadways, and visiting culturally rich new cities.

What is a fun fact about you?
My cats have made me believe that I’m an excellent cat masseur!