Vaishnavi Sunkari

Vaishnavi Sunkari, BSPH

Research Specialist III, Research Support

Vaishnavi.X.Sunkari@kp.org

About Me

Vaishnavi received her undergraduate degree in Public Health, with a concentration in Population Data Science and minors in Business and Child/Adolescent Development from San Jose State University.

She initially became interested in research when she worked as an undergraduate research assistant for two professors that supported her in publishing a scientific manuscript and contributing to the annual Silicon Valley Pain Index report. Working on both quantitative and qualitative projects caused Vai to appreciate the full research process, from data collection to analysis. She also enjoyed being able to connect with people to understand the issues they are facing and learn more about their lived experiences. In addition, analyzing data to find differences in groups and then creating interventions to help particular groups continue to be her favorite elements of the research process. She has also learned that using data to explain observed inequities to policymakers and stakeholders is essential.

As a result, Vai plans to pursue a career that focuses on researching health disparities. She ultimately aspires to receive an MPH in Epidemiology and eventually become an Epidemiologist.

In her free time, Vai enjoys exploring local coffee shops & bakeries, going on walks & long drives, traveling, and photography.

Primary Research Interests

• Maternal health
• Child development
• Impact of adverse childhood experiences on mental health
• Benefits of outdoor recreation on family health outcomes