Vaidehi Bhavaraju

Professional Background

I grew up in San Diego, California and attended the University of California, San Diego for my undergraduate degree, where I earned my B.S. in Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience with a minor in General Biology. During my senior year, I worked with Dr. Jolene Rudell, M.D., Ph.D. My project with Dr. Rudell’s lab studied the effects of the local anesthetic, bupivacaine, on rabbit extraocular eye muscles, to better understand its potential as a treatment for strabismus. My experience in this lab motivated me to pursue a dual degree to continue working towards understanding treatments for complex diseases. I am excited to join the MSTP program at KU to further explore my love for both research and medicine.

Outside of academics, I enjoy crocheting, reading, and spending time with family and friends as I explore Kansas City and make it my home.