Vikas Kumar, PhD, is an Associate Research Scientist at NYU Langone Health, where he is emerging as a leading early-career investigator at the intersection of immunology, metabolism, and cardiovascular disease. His research focuses on how RAGE/DIAPH1-driven trained immunity contributes to inflammation and tissue injury in diabetes.

Dr. Kumar’s scientific path—from uncovering mitochondrial drivers of cardiac failure in India to identifying immune–cardiac mechanisms at the NIH—reflects a sustained commitment to translating fundamental biology into therapeutic potential.

With publications in GeroScience, AJP-Heart, eLife, Cell Reports, and Frontiers in Endocrinology, his work has earned international recognition, including the M.R. Das Excellence Award, honors at the 2025 Fleischer NYC Regional Diabetes Symposium, and multiple presentation awards. His overarching goal is to develop immunometabolic approaches that improve outcomes in diabetic and cardiovascular disease.

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