Dr. Umapathy Sundaram
Transforming Medicine Through Research, Mentorship, and Innovation
A Mind for Science, A Heart for Service
Dr. Umapathy Sundaram, known to colleagues as Uma, is a board-certified gastroenterologist, professor, and Senior Advisor to the President for Veterans Affairs and Translational Sciences at Marshall University.
His career bridges clinical care, research innovation, and leadership, driving progress in both veterans’ health and academic medicine.
Educated in bioengineering at Johns Hopkins University, Dr. Sundaram earned his medical degree from the University of Toledo, followed by advanced training at the University of Michigan and Yale University. His foundation in engineering and medicine allows him to see connections others might miss — turning research into real-world solutions.
Research That Translates Into Better Care
For more than two decades, Dr. Sundaram has led NIH- and VA-funded studies totaling over $50 million in support.
Explore Dr. Sundaram’s peer-reviewed research
See citations, publications, and research impact
Every discovery in his lab is driven by a single question: How can this improve patients’ lives?
From cellular pathways to clinical practice, Uma’s research connects scientific understanding to meaningful outcomes.
A Career Defined by Impact
These achievements reflect not just numbers, but decades of commitment to advancing science, education, and compassionate care.
- $50M+ in NIH and VA research funding
- 100+ medical and doctoral trainees mentored
- 20+ years of clinical and academic leadership
Education and Training
- The Johns Hopkins University (Bioengineering Major)
- M.D. The Medical College of Ohio (University of Toledo Medical Center)
- Resident, Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical Center
- Fellow, Division of Digestive Diseases, Yale University, School of Medicine
Building the Next Generation of Medical Leaders
Dr. Sundaram believes that progress in medicine depends on mentorship as much as research.
With over four decades of published research in leading scientific journals, Dr. Sundaram has made lasting contributions to the fields of gastroenterology and medical education.
Over his career, he has guided more than 100 trainees — including MDs, MD/PhDs, PhDs, and medical students — helping them launch impactful careers in science and healthcare.
His legacy extends through the students and researchers he has empowered to continue advancing medical discovery.
News
News and Media
Dr. Umapathy Sundaram on Tackling NASH and NAFLD: Translating Science into Better Patient Outcomes
Mentorship in Medicine: Building the Next Generation of Physician-Scientists
Dr. Umapathy Sundaram Discusses the Future of Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Marshall University researcher wins award to study obesity
AGA bestows fellow-status on Dr. Uma Sundaram — 3 insights
Dr. Uma Sundaram receives $2.39M grant from NIH to study IBD: 3 notes
Marshall University Researcher Wins Award to Study Obesity
WVU health sciences lands $53M in research funding
Dr. Uma Sundaram appointed senior advisor to the president for Veterans Affairs and Translational Sciences at Marshall University
Sundaram honored with VA Merit Review Senior Clinician Scientist Investigator Award
UK CCTS Partners with Marshall University on COBRE Grant for Obesity Research
Marshall Awarded Nearly 11 Million in Grant Funding
Marshall Awarded Nearly 11 Million in Grant Funding
Marshall Dean Gets Grant to Study Bowel Disease
Thumbs Up: MU Gains Important Research Grant
Marshall marks 30th annual Health Sciences Research Day
Biomedical Program Talks Healthcare in Appalachia
Dr. Uma Sundaram - S C C I Award Recipient
Connect with Dr. Sundaram
Interested in collaboration, research partnerships, or academic engagement?
Reach out to learn more about Dr. Sundaram’s ongoing work and leadership in translational medicine.
