Ajit Varki is an Indian-born scientist known for his research in biomedical sciences, particularly in the field of glycobiology. He is associated with the University of California, San Diego (UCSD), where he has held faculty appointments in medicine and cellular and molecular medicine.
| Name | Ajit Varki |
|---|---|
| Nationality | Indian-origin |
| Field | Glycobiology, biomedical research |
| Affiliation | University of California, San Diego |
| Description | Indian scientist |
Varki received his medical training in India before moving to the United States to pursue further training and research in internal medicine and haematology–oncology. His subsequent academic career has been centred in the United States, where he transitioned into laboratory-based biomedical research.
Varki's research interests have focused on sialic acids, a family of sugar molecules found on the surface of cells, and their role in human biology, evolution, disease, and host–pathogen interactions. His work has examined biological differences between humans and other primates, with particular attention to molecular features that may have implications for human-specific diseases.
At UCSD, he has been involved in establishing collaborative research programmes that bring together scientists from glycobiology, anthropology, and evolutionary biology.
Varki is regarded as a notable figure in glycobiology, a discipline that studies the structure and function of complex carbohydrates in living systems. His comparative studies of humans and great apes have contributed to discussion in evolutionary medicine.