Basic Sciences Faculty

Dr. Gurumurthy

Associate Professor

Dean

The present Dean is a graduate from one of the prestigious Medical College in India (i.e. Bangalore Medical College). He is board Certified to practice in India and has some Academic Publications. He joined Spartan as a Lecturer some twenty (20) years ago. However; before joining Spartan he taught at a Medical College in India and has completed a year in Dermatology training at Bangalore Medical College.

The Dean (i.e. Dr. Gurumurthy) is a dedicated and enthusiastic teacher with great loyalty to the school and its student’s .He has a vast knowledge in his particular subject of teaching and this has been reflected on the improvement of student’s performance. In fact ;he has been teaching Neuroanatomy for the past eighteen(18) years and has made it simple for the students to understand such a complex subject-as such, he has won various appreciation awards from the various student bodies.

Dr.Gurumurthy accepted responsibilities for the Administration in 1994 and has performed credibly. His responsibilities include day to day activities of the school in addition to various academic duties such as curriculum development, Faculty and Faculty /Student Committees and the Research Unit.

It must be mentioned that Dr.Gurumurthy was very instrumental in ensuring the Full Accreditation of Spartan by the St.Lucia Monitoring Committee in 2004, NCFMEA approval in 2007 and New York site visit in 2009.

He has participated in various Academic and Accreditation workshops throughout his career. The latest was a three (3) day’s workshop for External and Peer Evaluators (i.e. a training programme) in October 2011. This was followed by an examination in which Dr.Gurumurthy passed and is now an official External and Peer Evaluator recognized by the CARICOM Secretariat.

In short, Dr.Gurumurthy is an asset for the University and looking forward, the University anticipates great progress under his leadership. Lately: Dr.Gurumurthy played a leading role in the University’s achievement in obtaining provisional accreditation by CAAMP-HP in 2013.

Dr. Ravindranadh Gandrakota

Assistant Dean of Academic Affairs

HOD, Department of Anatomy

Dr. Ravindranath, an Anatomy professor, joined the Spartan Health Sciences University, School of Medicine in November 2022.
At the beginning of his career, he served as a casualty medical officer in Kathmandu, Nepal, and later as a general practitioner in Saudi Arabia and also in Warangal, India.
He obtained his Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery, M.B.B.S, from the Minsk State Medical Institute, Belarus in 1992 and a master's degree, Master of Surgery (MS) in Anatomy from NTR University of Health Sciences, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, in 2002.
Since then he moved into academic teaching and worked in India and abroad in various academic positions and designations. He is also a life member of the Indian Medical Association and Anatomical Society of India.
In 2023 he was appointed as Academic Assistant Dean and vice Chairman of the Curriculum Committee.

Dr. Rajeev Pandey

Dr. Steve Katz

Dr. Stephen Katz, MD, FACP, joined the faculty of Spartan University School of Medicine in April, 2023. Dr. Katz most recently served as the Dean of Clinical Sciences at International American University, and prior to that served as the Chairman of Internal Medicine at Ross University School of Medicine for eighteen years.
He was the director of the Internal Medicine Residency Program at Prince George's Hospital in Cheverly, Maryland in the 1990’s.
He currently practices Internal Medicine in Severna Park Maryland.
Dr. Katz attended the University of Maryland School of Medicine and completed residency training in Internal Medicine at Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center in 1992 when he also earned board certification in Internal Medicine.
He was an assistant clinical professor of medicine at the University of Maryland Medical School from 1995 to 1998.
Dr. Katz completed the faculty development program in medical teaching at Johns Hopkins University in 1997.
He is a Fellow of the American College of Physicians.
As an active practicing physician, Dr. Katz enjoys incorporating teaching from cases from his practice into teaching students.
“Taking care of patients every day and transforming the lessons I have learned into teaching medical students has been one of the great privileges of my career.

• Rajeev Pandey, Gurumurthy, Jesse Galinski, Andrew Haddad, and Payal Dhaduk (2015). Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy: A Review of Applications and Outcomes. Nucl Med Radiat Ther, 6:4.
• Rajeev Pandey, Jesse Galinski, Jamee Charles, and Gurumurthy (2013). Examination of the Synergistic Relationship of Diabetes and Depression. Biochemistry & Physiology, 2:3.
• Dr Rajeev Pandey, Maxceline Aghen, Jamie Dubose, Kaishia Joseph, Thea Recai and Amelia St. Agne (2013). The where and how of cancer vaccines. Heartbeat. Issue. April, 2013.
• R Pandey, Sambasivarao Y and Gurumurthy (2013). Antibacterial Activity of Medicinal Plants against Pathogens from Extracts of Achyranthes Aspera. Medicinal & Aromatic Plants. 2:5.
• Sambasivarao Y, Jasmin Ahmed, Benjamin Kuska, Rajeev Pandey, Gurumurthy (2013). PCR Analysis: Detection of Bacteriophage Contamination in Biotechnology used to Produce Recombinant drugs. Journal of Science, Vol. 3, No.1, pp. 201-204.
• Science, technology & the future of medicine, Dr Yaragalla Sambasivarao (2013). Issue, April 2013. Dr Rajeev Pandey, Jamee Charles and Jesse Galinski (2013). The synergistic relationship of diabetes and depression. Heartbeat. Issue. April, 2013.
• Pandey, R. and Gurumurthy (2012). Resistin, is there any role in the mediation of obesity, insulin resistance & type-II diabetes mellitus? West Indian Medical Journal.
• A Report – CHARCOS UPDATE (2012) Heartbeat. Issue. Nov.-Dec., 2012.
• A Report – SHSU Inaugurates the Community Health and Research Centre of Spartan (CHARCOS) (2012) Heartbeat. Issue. July, 2012.
• Pandey, R.; Yarragalla, S. and Gurumurthy (2012). Antibacterial Activity of Different Organic Extracts of Achyranthes Aspera. Asian Journal of Tropical Medicine.
• Pandey, R.; Singh A. K. And Gurumurthy (2012). Resistin, is there any role in the mediation of obesity, insulin resistance and type-II diabetes mellitus? Journal of Stress Physiology & Biochemistry. K. Gupta; A.K. Mishra; R. Gaur; R. Pandey & U.K. Chauhan (2009). Studies of Genetic Polymorphism in the isolate of Fusarium Solani. Australian Journal of Crop Sciences. 3(2):101-106 (I.F. 1.132).

• Rana, A. Tripathi & R. Pandey (2009). Intellectual Property Rights. Industrial R&D Highlights.
• Rana, A. Tripathi & R. Pandey (2008). Consequences of Global Warming. Our Earth.
• Mehrotra S.; Gupta A.; Singh S. & Pandey R. (2006). Evaluation of Phototoxic Potential of Selected Drugs in terms of Singlet Oxygen Generation under UV Stress. Advances in Pharmacology and Toxicology. Volume 7(1):55-62.
• Singh, S. Mehrotra, R. Pandey & R. Sandhir (2005). Hepatoxic effects of tert-butyl hydroperoxide (t-BHP) and protection by antioxidants. Indian Journal of Experimental Biology. Vol.43(8) : 728-731 (I.F. 0.551).
• Gaur R.; Pandey R.; and Kumar A. (2003). Inhibitory effect of essential oil of Achyranthus aspera against phytopathogenesis. Science and Culture. 70. (3-4). 165-166. Pandey R.; Mehrotra S.; Ray R.S.; Joshi P.C. & Hans R.K. (2002). Evaluation of UV Radiation Induced Singlet Oxygen Generation Potential of Selected Drugs. Drug and Chemical Toxicology. 25 (2), 215-225. (I.F. 2.92).
• Pandey, et.al. (2002). Proc. Intl. Conf. on Environmental Threats to Health of Children (WHO). Chulabhorn Research Institute, Bangkok, Thailand. March, 3–7.
• K. Dwivedi & R. Pandey (2001). Iodine as a tool for water treatment. The Green Trend. March–April. Gaur; N. S. Darmwal; M. K. Gaur; R. Pandey & and N. Mehrotra (1999). Effect of soil solarization on the reduction of Pythium ultimum and damping – off of Linum usitatissimum. Acta Botanica Indica. Vol. 27; 31-33.
• Gaur; N. S. Darmwal; M. K. Gaur; R. Pandey & and N. Mehrotra (1999). Effect of incubation periods and temperature and free amino acids production by Trichoderma harzianum, a biocontrol fungus against Rhizoctonia solani. Acta Botanica Indica. Vol. 27; 205-207. Pandey,et.al. (1998). Hindustan Antibiotics Bull., 40: 59-61.

BOOK CHAPTERS

Biodeterioration of Ind. & Food Products. R. Gaur, N.S. Darmwal & Pandey. Env. Microbiology & Biotechnology edt. by D.P. Singh & S. K. Dwivedi (2003) New Age Int. (P) Ltd., Publishers. N. Delhi.

Dr. Rajeev Pandey

Asst. Dean of Admissions

Department of Biochemistry

Dr. Rajeev Pandey, Assistant Dean of Administration HOD, Department of Biochemistry Dr. Rajeev Pandey, a Medical Educator at Associate Professor rank with demonstrated capabilities in Medical Biochemistry & Molecular Biology. Organized Academic professional with more than decade of experience along with similar years of experience in Research as Chairman and various administrative areas viz., Asst. Dean of Admissions, Academic Affairs and Administration. Experienced in teaching Case Based Learning to students. Committed to improve diverse group of student’s participations in interpretation of medical knowledge for improving academic performance. Dr. Rajeev Pandey became the Assistant Dean of Administration on January 2023. Before taking this responsibility, he was Assistant Dean of Academic Affairs from January 2022 – December 2022 and also served as Dean of Admissions at Spartan Health Sciences University from September 2014 – December 2021. Dr. Rajeev, a biochemist and a Chairman of Community Health & Research Center of Spartan (CHARCOS), is a Head / Course Director & Associate Professor of Department of Biochemistry at Spartan Health Sciences University, School of Medicine and Director of BS-Biomedical Sciences (Biochemistry Major) Programme of SHSU. Dr. Rajeev is actively involved in Research, Professional Development of Faculty since 2011. He also holds the Executive Chief Proctor for NBME position since 2015 at SHSU. Dr. Rajeev has authored more than 43 research papers and reviews in various journals of repute. He published 14 research / review papers at SHSU and approximately 05 publications are in pipeline for publication. Dr. Rajeev has completed series of course viz., Principles and Practice of Clinical Research and Principles of Clinical Pharmacology offered by Office of Clinical Research, NIH, USA; Alcohol use, womes’s Health & Pregnancy: Approaches to Preventing Problems Associated with Prenatal Alcohol Exposure; AUDIT-SBI (Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test – Screening & Brief Intervention); Implementation of the HEARTS Technical Package in Primary Health Care, Maternal & Perinatal Death Surveillance & Response, An Ethnic Approach to Health offered by PAHO, WHO; HIPPA Compliance Training Course-2019 offered by Accountable; Protecting Human Research Participants offered by NIH etc. Previously, he had served as faculty at American Institute of Medicine in Seychelles and College of Medical Science & Technology in India. Dr. Rajeev also worked as Scientist at Department of Science & Technology, India and has vast experience in Intellectual Property Rights, Medical Research and funding. Dr. Rajeev was raised in the north region of India and received his Ph.D. in Biochemistry entitled “Studies on the Photo-toxic & Photohemolytic Potential of Commonly used Antibiotics” from Dr. R.M.L. Avadh University, India. Prior to re-joining academic, Dr. Rajeev was actively involved in strategy development for IPR & medical research, facilitation of meetings or consultation. He has worked with Department of Biochemistry, Dr. R.M.L. Avadh University, India and taught Clinical Biochemistry in PG Diploma in Clinical Biochemistry & Pathology programme. Dr. Rajeev has done series of General Course on Intellectual Property Rights offered by World Intellectual Property Organization, Switzerland. Dr. Rajeev was fellow of Council of Science & Technology & Department of Science & Technology, India.

Dr. Ram Pardeshi

MD Chair, Psychiatry

Ram Pardeshi, MD Chair, Psychiatry BJ Medical College (MD) Ferguson College (Pre-Med) Columbia University/Creedmoor (Psychiatry Residency) Columbia University/Creedmoor (Psychiatry Fellowship) Current/ Past Notable Appointments: Chief Attending, Creedmoor Psychiatric Center Associate Clinical Professor, Psychiatry (NY Psychiatric Institute/ Columbia) Associate Clinical Professor, Psychiatry (St George's University, American U of Antigua) Clerkship Director, Psychiatry (Kingsbrook Jewish Medical Center) Lecturer, Psychopathology (Creedmoor/ Columbia) Dr. Pardeshi completed his medical degree at BJ Medical College in India. After medical school, he pursued and completed his residency and fellowship at Columbia University/ Creedmoor Psychiatric Center. He has been in medical academia for several decades and has continually precepted residents and students at multiple hospitals and health care facilities in New York. Dr. Pardeshi continues to develop teaching methods to the evolving medical school curricula. He has participated in developing multi-platform methods in presenting to third and fourth year psychiatry students. He has assisted in developing a successful OSCE program at One Brooklyn Health in New York.

Miss. Marigold Castillo

Marigold Castillo

MD Chair, Pediatrics

Ross University (MD)
University of Calgary (BS)
Brookdale University Medical Center (Pediatrics Residency)
Northwell Cohen Children's Medical Center (Adolescent Med Fellowship)
Current/ Past Notable Appointments:
Deputy Chief Medical Officer (United States Merchant Marine Academy)
Assistant Clinical Professor (Zucker School of Medicine/ Hofstra )
Program Director, Undergraduate Medical Education (Kingsbrook Jewish Medical Center)
Dr. Castillo is an attending faculty at the Northwell System in New York. She completed her premedical education at the University of Calgary in Alberta.
Clinical Faculty LeadershipAfter completion of her medical degree at Ross University, she went into Pediatrics at Brookdale University Medical Center, followed by a fellowship in Adolescent Medicine at Northwell Cohen Children's Hospital of Long Island Jewish Medical Center.
As UME program director, she helped manage and design the clerkship and ICM program at Kingsbrook Jewish Medical Center, catering to third and fourth year medical students from SUNY Downstate, Touro COM, NYCOM, Medical University of Lublin, St. George's University and Spartan Health Sciences University.
She has taught pediatric residents at Northwell, as well as second, third and fourth year medical students at Zucker School of Medicine/ Hofstra in New York.
Dr. Castillo managed the health services unit of the United States Merchant Marine Academy in Great Neck, NY, as well as served as an attending at several New York City-based public schools. She precepts second year students at Zucker as part of the Introduction to Clinical Education (ICE) program.

Mercedes Dullum, MD Chair, Surgery

Associate Professor, SHSU.

Medical College of Georgia (MD)
Georgia Institute of Technology (BS)
University of Mississippi Medical Center (General Surgery Residency)
George Washington University Medical Center (Thoracic Surgery Residency)
Current/ Past Notable Appointments:
Commissioner of Health (US Virgin Islands)
Member (CMS Medical Care Advisory Committee)
Expert Panelist (US Food and Drug Administration)
Director, Cardiac Surgery and Chairperson, Performance Improvement (Cleveland Clinic Florida)
Professor and Chair, Surgery (Ross University)
Dr. Mercedes Dullum is a leader in the field of Surgery and Health Care Administration. She began her premedical studies at Georgia Tech, earning a B.S. in Applied Biology.
She earned her medical degree from the Medical College of Georgia, serving on the Dean's committee for Accreditation. During her time in medical school, she was selected and honored as one of the Outstanding Young Women of America.
Dr. Dullum has multiple awards and honors, in addition to her professional certifications as a surgeon, quality review administrator, and consultant. She has held multiple adjunct clinical professor appointments including Georgetown

Dr. Muftau Yekeen

Assistant Professor, Dept. of Biochemistry

Dr. Muftau Yekeen Associate Professor, ICM Director of Student Affairs HOD, Department of Clinical Sciences Dr Muftau Yekeen is a medical graduate of the Obafemi Awolowo University College of Health Sciences, Nigeria. He graduated in 1995 and started his medical practice career at the prestigious Massey Street Children hospital, Lagos, Nigeria from where he moved to Lagos Island maternity hospital and then general hospital Lagos. Years later, he moved to Ikorodu General Hospital in the year 2001 where he was the head of Tuberculosis (DOT) clinic for 3 years before he was transferred to head the Imota health center in Ikorodu as the pioneer Principal Medical Officer. He also practiced as a family physician at Eureka Health Services in Nevis, St Kitts and Nevis before venturing into medical education. He has lectured at Windsor University SOM, St Kitts, Avalon University SOM, Curacao and later joined Spartan Health Sciences University in fall of 2014. He has been the Coordinator of American Medical Students Association (AMSA) and the Director of Students’ Affairs at SHSU since 2017. He has organized countless community outreach clinics on behalf of the management of SHSU in collaboration with many private and public organizations in St Lucia, including the Ministry of Health and Wellness, the correctional center, First Caribbean International Bank, several community youth and religious organizations, the St Lucia Diabetes and hypertension Association etc. Dr Yekeen has a Master’s of Science degree in Public Health and is a certified Clinical Research Monitor. He has worked with Clinproxy Research Institute, Nevada USA where he performed site management and monitoring activities for clinical study in compliance with International Conference on Harmonization (ICH) and Good Clinical Practice (GCP), while prioritizing subjects’ rights, safety and well-being. He also conducted site visits, including validation visits, initiation visits, monitoring visits and close-out visits He currently teaches Molecular Biology, Medical Genetics and Introduction to Clinical Medicine at Spartan Health Sciences University and is an active member of CHARCOS. He volunteered as the team leader, Express Team South, in the National Schistosomiasis Survey that sampled about 2000 randomly selected school-aged children between the ages of 8 and 11 across St Lucia to determine the prevalence of schistosomiasis among this target population in 2017. He also volunteered with the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) as a member of COVID-19 Monitoring team during the period of national lock-down due to COVID-19 pandemic. Dr Yekeen strongly believes that teaching is a lifelong process of learning from all around you; colleagues, students, parents and even the environments we live. And that each student is unique and possesses something special that can be contributed towards his/her own education process. Each, therefore requires an enabling educational environment where they can grow physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially. He therefore always strives to create this type of atmosphere where students can meet their full potential.

Serving as a guide for students to have access to hands-on activities that encourages them to make choices and practice their skills in a safe environment where they can incorporate technology into every school day and allow their curiosity guide their learning proces. 1. Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria
2. Nigeria Medical Association
3. St Kitts and Nevis Medical and Dental council
4. St Lucia Medical and Dental Council
5. International Association for the study of Pain (IASP)

Dr. Mahathi Thotakura

HOD, Department of Pathology

Dr. Mahathi Thotakura HOD, Department of Pathology Dr. Mahathi Thotakura holds a MD in pathology and has 9+ years teaching experience in various academic and administrative capacities. She completed her Post graduation in MD pathology from NRI medical College, Guntur and MBBS from VMMC, Pondicherry. After she completed her MBBS in 2004, joined as a Post-Doctoral Research Associate in cancer biology laboratory at the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria and developed interest in research in cell biology. Later she completed her MD Pathology in 2013. Before joining Spartan, she worked as an assistant professor and promoted to associate professor and later as a professor in pathology at Katuri Medical College and Hospital, Guntur. She has trained in NABL ISO 15189 IA & QMC course and has worked in NABL accredited laboratory as Central Lab Incharge at KMCH, Guntur. She joined as associate professor at Spartan Health Science University. She brings her extensive experience in teaching and clinical experience to the department of pathology at Spartan Health Sciences University. She has been actively involved as a member in various committees like CME , PDCF and Curriculum committees. She has published various research articles in many reputed journals. Her area of interest for teaching and research includes clinical pathology and Cancer cell biology.

Dr. Robert Mucciola

Clinical Dean & Chair – Obstetrics & Gynecology

East Virginia Medical School (MD)
Washington & Lee University (BS)
Wiliam Beaumont Army Medical Center (Ob/Gyn Residency)
University of Virginia (Fellowship in Hospital Ethics)
Current/Past Notable Appointments:
Program Director, Ob/Gyn Residency (Riverside Medical Center)
Professor and Chair, Ob/Gyn (Ross University)
Clinical Instructor (Medical College of Virginia)
Chair, Ethics Program (Conemaugh Health System)
IRB Chair (Windber Medical Center)
Dr. Robert Mucciola is an accomplished physician and academician. He began his premedical studies at Washington and Lee University where he earned a BS degree in Biology.
He was a member of the Medical Service Corps of the United States Army, operating in both domestic and foreign theatres with an honorable discharge in 1991.
He earned his medical degree from East Virginia Medical School and completed an Ob/Gyn residency at Wm Beaumont Army Medical Center. Dr. Mucciola has over twenty post-graduate training certifications in his field. In addition, he is a distinguished bioethics expert, trained and certifed. Dr. Mucciola is well published in his field, and has been involved in medical research and bioethics throughout his distinguished professional career.
His academic experience include clerkship and residency management and oversight, as both Professor and Program Director. Dr. Mucciola has received

Ms. Lydia S. Atkins

Assistant Professor, Dept. of Clinical Medicine

Ms. Lydia Atkins obtained her Master in Public Health from the St. George’s University in Grenada in 2011 and has over three years of public health research experience with national, regional and international institutions. She is a Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2013 expert for the 2013 GBD study and has collaborated on three publications as part of the project.

Ms. Atkins has lectured at the Department of Health Sciences at Sir Arthur Lewis Community College in 2012, is a facilitator with the CARPHA Caribbean Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training program and an external evaluator for the Integrative Public Health Project, an interdisciplinary MPH project with St. George’s University.

As a volunteer with the St. Lucia Diabetes and Hypertension Association she served on the Board of Directors for two years, 2012-2014, as the Chair for Education and Community Outreach. She is the country coordinator for the International Diabetes Federation Life for a Child program and has presented at international and national conferences. She has interned with the Pan American Health Organization and brings with her practical experience in public health in epidemiology and a public health network that continues to broaden her experiences. She is a self-driven professional with a passion for community service.

Mrs Virginia Joseph

Assistant Professor, Dept. of Behavioral Science

Mrs Virginia Joseph is a licensed Psychologist both in St Lucia and the UK, graduated from university of East London in 2007. She completed her masters in Counselling Psychology with Regents School of Counselling and Psychotherapy and presently, is in the process of completing a professional doctorate in Counselling Psychology.

Mrs Joseph has over 2 years’ experience as a visiting lecturer with a medical school here in St Lucia. She have accumulated over 9 years of counselling experience both here and the UK working with a wide range of presenting issues especially in mental health, abuse and drug and addiction. She is an active researcher in area of Culture differences, Mindfulness and cancer.

Prior to pursuing her career in Counselling, Mrs Joseph worked as a Banker in a St Lucian Bank for over 17 years; she also served as president and member on several school committees.

Mrs Joseph brings to Spartan Health Science University her unique combination of related experience of academic and counselling skills.

Dr Ramachandra Thippaiah

Associate Professor, ICM Department of Clinical Sciences

Dr Ramachandra Thippaiah Associate Professor, ICM Department of Clinical Sciences Dr Ramachandra THIPPAIAH is a senior Practicing Surgeon in St Lucia. He obtained his undergraduate degree from Gulbarga University in 1990 and completed Internship in 1991 in India He joined prestigious Mysore university in1992 to begin his General Surgical training and obtain his Master of Surgery Degree in 1995. He got his Laparoscopic surgery fellowship in 2009 from world Laprascopic Surgery College from Delhi, India. Also trained in Bariatric and Metabolic surgery Immediately after the university education in 1996, he choose to join Dr B R Ambedkar Medical college in India as a Lecturer of surgery and Started teaching Medical students and training post graduate students. He Migrated to beautiful St Lucia. in the year 2000 He joined as a consultant Surgeon at Victoria hospital, later he was transferred to St Jude hospital in 2002 and he did service here until 2019. he took pride in developing clinical services and teaching International Medical Students and residents coming from US,UK,Canada and other parts of the world for peripheral postings, he was also conducting interactive clinical sessions and lectures at International American University as professor. He gave number of lectures over the years and got awards from his student community. He has special interest in social services, was part of International Rotary organisation and served as a President of the Rotary club and involved in impacting the society positively. Dr Ramachandra Thippaiah joined Spartan Health sciences university in 2022 and he is a chairman of the CME committee and incharge of PDCF as well.

Dr. Epifanio S. Labong

Dr. Epifanio S. Labong Jr. Associate Professor, ICM Department of Clinical Sciences

Dr. Epifanio S. Labong Jr. Associate Professor, ICM Department of Clinical Sciences SHSU Epifanio S. Labong Jr., a Medical Doctor graduate of Saint Louis University in Baguio City Philippines and completed his residency training in General Surgery at Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center in 2003. Aside from being a physician, with a premedical course of Bachelor Science in Nursing was also a registered nurse. Upon completion of residency training, he was mainly engaged in private practice within the City of Baguio and nearby provinces. The practice mainly involved performing surgical procedures that are within the scope of the practice. These where all done at different hospitals within the vicinity with adequate and accredited as institution for practice. Aside from the private practice, he was actively involved in different medical and surgical missions within the country. In the field of Medical Education, he headed the Department of Anatomy and Histology in Baguio Central University Medical School.

Dr. Santhi Pravin Rathod

Senior Lecturer, Department of Anatomy

Dr. Santhi Pravin Rathod, did M.B.B.S from Terna Medical College, Mumbai, India and Hospital administration with Quality management in health care from Apollo hospitals Hyderabad India. She has extensive clinical experience of 15 years, working as doctor in emergency department and as a general practitioner and also teaching medical, dental and para medical graduates for last six years. She has successfully completed training for Medical Education Technology by Medical council of India.

Dr. Yulia Antonenko Volkova

Assistant Professor, ICM Department of Clinical Sciences

Dr. Yulia Antonenko Volkova Assistant Professor, ICM Department of Clinical Sciences Dr. Yulia is a medical educator with extensive experience in teaching clinical skills to students in the preclinical phase of their medical training. She is a graduate of the American University of Antigua College of Medicine (W.I.). Dr. Yulia Joined SHSU in the year 2022 as Assistant Professor. Dr. Volkova is ECFMG certified. She has been a Fellow of the American Center for Investigative Cardiology and Research Associate at the Howard University Exercise & Nutritional Sciences Laboratory (USA). Her publications in peer-reviewed journals span the basic and clinical science areas of nutrition and exercise as preventive treatments for cardiovascular disease, as well as neurotherapies for increasing neurogenesis and improving learning and memory functions. She has expertise in designing and implementing community health fairs for medical screening of disadvantaged, underserved populations. Dr. Yulia’s certification as a Yoga-Pilates instructor supports her interest in functional and integrative medicine.

Dr Prashanth kumar

Department of Pharmacology

Dr Prashanth kumar HOD, Department of Pharmacology Dr Prashanth kumar became the Head / Course Director of the Department of pharmacology in Spartan Health Science University since 2023. He also holds the position of Director of Spartan Students Association (SSA) and liaise with the administration of the school to meet the needs of the students. Dr. Prashanth had the experience as An assistant professor for 5years as a clinical pharmacologist and Contributed to the curriculum reviews and institutional committees added to his professional experience . He has authored many research papers and also involved in clinical work that led to hold one patent right. As a certified Revised basic and Advanced medical education trainer, participated in various medical education programs to implement the newer medical education teaching skills. As a co-coordinator of Adverse Monitoring center, for Pharmacovigilance Programme of India (PvPI) had the experience in pharmacovigilance related programs. Dr. Prashanth graduated in MBBS, worked in various hospitals as a Resident doctor. He completed Post graduation in MD-Pharmacology in 2018. His scientific knowledge in pharmacology and professional experience is an add on for the department in Spartan Health science University.

Dr. Sybil Naitram-James

Associate Professor, Department of Clinical Sciences

Dr. Sybil Naitram-James Associate Professor, Department of Clinical Sciences Dr. Sybil Naitram-James have a Masters Degree in Pediatrics and Public Health. She is the Medical Director of St. Jude Hospital in St. Lucia, where she also practice pediatrics. She has been an Associate Professor at the Spartan Health Science University from January 2010 where she teaches Physical Diagnosis. Although she is an active practicing physician, teaching is one of her great passions. She teach medical students during the basic science years, and also interact with students during their clinical years as Interns at her hospital.

Dr. Syamala Bhupathi

HOD, Department of Physiology

Dr. Syamala Bhupathi HOD, Department of Physiology Dr Syamala is Heading the Department of physiology at Spartan Health Science University since 2021. She also holds the position as Chairperson of Spartan Chapter of the American Medical Student Association where she committed to the improvement and delivery of health care to the people by teaching, educating and encouraging students to become socially responsible physicians. With her educational background in Bachelor of Homeopathic Medicine and Surgery she started her professional carrier as Duty Medical Officer at Sai Durga Multispecialty Hospital, Hyderabad during 2000. After completion of Post Graduation in Medical Physiology in the year 2007 from MNR medical college, reconstructed her carrier as tutor in Physiology Department. She completed her PhD-Medical Physiology from Saveetha University in 2017. She had overall 13 years of teaching experience in the department of Physiology. Her passion towards research involved her in many research scholarly activities. She has authored and presented many research papers in different journals and at Various conferences respectively. Currently she is holding the prestigious responsibility as reviewer for the Journal of Basic and Clinical Physiology and Pharmacology and as International reviewer for Phd thesis for various universities in India. Her innovative teaching skills and enthusiastic passion towards research scholarly activities is an add on for the department as well as Spartan Health science University.

Mrs. Seshu Kumari

Senior Lecturer, Department of Microbiology

Mrs. Seshu Kumari Senior Lecturer, Department of Microbiology Mrs. Seshu Kumari is currently working as Senior Lecturer in the of the Department of Microbiology at Spartan Health Science University from 2022. She is associated with administration of the school in the position of Chairperson for Library and helps to maintain & develop the institutional resources for both the faculty and students. She graduated her Bachelor’s Degree in 2009, completed Post graduation in M.Sc Medical Microbiology from SVIMS University, Tirupati, India in 2012. She completed her Diploma Post Graduation in Hospital And Healthcare Management in the year 2022 and currently pursuing her PH.D.(DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY) in Medical Microbiology Associated With Orthopedics And Dental at Meenakshi Academy of Higher Education and Research (MAHER), Chennai. Mrs. Kumari started her professional carrier in the year 2013 as Tutor, worked in the position of Tutor and Assistant Professor at different Prestigious Medical Institutions in Telangana, India and gained 10years Teaching, Laboratory and Research experience as Medical Microbiologist. Her Academic Trainings like CXXXIII Internal Auditor And Quality Management System Certificate Course As Per ISO 15189-2012, Revised Basic Course Workshop And Training In Attitude (RBCW), Ethics & Communication (AETCOM ) And Curriculum Implementation Support Programme ( CISP ) contributed to the curriculum reviews at the institutional level as per National Medical Commission(NMC) norms for Under Graduate Medical Courses and Quality Assurance of Microbiology laboratory. Her administrative skills promoted her to the position of ACADEMIC COORDINATOR / ASSISTANT DEAN OF ACADEMICS, at MIMS, Vikarabad with major responsibilities to coordinate Admission of students, Curriculum designing and Scheduling, Conducting Institutional and University level exam. She successfully managed the demanding workload as a teacher and administrator involving institutional committees – Ethics, Research, Organising Continuing Medical Education (CME) added to her professional experience. She has authored many research papers. Her academic, research and administrative professional experience helps SHSU to reach its Vision and Mission successfully. Address: Spartan Drive, St.Jude's Highway, PO Box 324, Vieux Fort, St.Lucia. Call Us: 1(718) 841-7660 E-mail: admissions@spartanmed.org Useful Links Accreditation Why Spartan? Catalogue Contact Us Qui

Miss. Sreevani. Namani

Medical Biochemistry

Miss. Sreevani. Namani Medical Biochemistry Ms. Sreevani. Namani obtained her post-graduation degree in M.Sc. Medical Biochemistry from MNR medical college, Telangana which affiliated to DRNTRUHS and Graduated Doctor degree in BNYS from Gandhi Naturopathy medical college, Telangana which affiliated to DRNTRUHS and registered by CCRYN under Ministry of Ayush, Govt of India. Presently pursuing PhD from Saveetha university, Chennai, India as part time scholar. She has 11 years of Teaching experience as Faculty of Biochemistry to MBBS, BDS, paramedical courses at various medical colleges in Hyderabad. She offered her services as external visiting faculty for professional degree courses like BNYS & Allied health sciences in Hyderabad, India. She undergone training in "Revised Basic Course Workshop" organised by Medical education unit, GMC, Hyderabad and "Curriculum Implementation Support Program" at RVM institute of medical sciences and research centre, Telangana organised by regional centre for faculty development, GMC under Medical council of India in 2019. And also trained in Basic course in Biomedical Research by ICMR- National Institute of Epidemiology She was actively involved in 2 state level CME as organising member in the area of Biochemistry during her career. During her career she appointed as UG external examiner by DRNTRUHS and KNRUHS to conduct Biochemistry exam for BNYS and paramedical courses respectively. She authored for 3 papers in indexed journals and also a part of research team, published 6 papers in reputed indexed journals. She joined as Assistant professor of Biochemistry in Spartan health sciences in November 2022. She is the member of Admission committee for spartan school of medicine.

Dr Rohith Gaddam

Lecturer, Department of Physiology

Dr Rohith Gaddam Lecturer, Department of Physiology Dr Rohith joined Spartan Health Science University during 2022 in the Department of Physiology as Lecturer. He started his professional carrier as Duty Medical Officer at Yashoda Hospital and developed tremendous experience in the field of Neurosurgery. He worked as Physician Assistant for more than 5 years, in the department of Neurosurgery at Care Hospital and Virinchi Hospital, Hyderabad, India. In India, his carrier continued as Casualty Medical Officer and Incharge for Emergency Medicine department till August 2022. Dr. Rohith completed his medical graduation (MBBS) in 2012 from Soochow University P.R. China. He completed his Postgraduate Diploma In Hospital And Healthcare Management from Symbiosis International Deemed University in 2022. His passion to work in an environment that challenges and enhances professional as well as personal skills while delivering good lectures, motivating students in all aspects helps the organization to meet its goals.

Dr. Pravin R Rathod

Assistant Dean of Admission Associate Professor, Department of Anatomy

Dr. Pravin R Rathod Assistant Dean of Admission Associate Professor, Department of Anatomy Dr. Pravin R Rathod is an Associate Professor in the Department of Anatomy and serves as the Assistant Dean of Admission at Spartan Health Sciences University. With an extensive academic and professional background. With total 8yrs of teaching and 15 yrs. of clinical experience, Dr. Rathod obtained his M.B.B.S from Mumbai University and M.D. (Doctor of Medicine) in Anatomy from Maharashtra Medical Council of India. Both the degree is accredited by the National Medical Commission of India. Throughout his career, Dr. Rathod has actively pursued further learning and specialization opportunities. He completed a course on Research on Sexual and Reproductive Health organized by the Geneva Foundation for Medical Education and Research (World Health Organization, Geneva) in collaboration with the Department of Reproductive Health and Research. Additionally, he underwent training in Histo-techniques, special and immunohistochemical staining, and museum techniques at the Department of Neuropathology of the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS). Dr. Rathod's professional development extends beyond his academic pursuits. He successfully completed the Critical Care Management training program at Breach Candy Hospital & Research Centre in India. He also holds a one-year diploma course in Disaster Management from Sikkim Manipal University, and he has acquired proficiency in computer operating through a course organized by the Central Government of India. Dr. Rathod's research contributions are notable. He presented a thesis on 'Morphometric study of the Sacrum in Navi Mumbai population' during his M.D. program. He also completed a project on the 'Prevalence of depression amongst 1st-year M.B.B.S. students at M.G.M. University' under the Geneva Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Furthermore, he has served as a research mentor for several projects, including 'Morphometric case study of 'wandering' fibroid with developmental correlation' and 'Histogenesis of motor neurons in the spinal cord and brainstem with special reference to the pyramidal tract in the fetus of different gestational groups.' Dr. Rathod's expertise and dedication have been recognized through various accolades. He participated in a paper presentation on degenerative diseases in the Neuropathology category at the State-level conference organized by the Anatomy Department of Mahatma Gandhi Mission Institute of Health Sciences University. His research paper, titled 'Comparative study of degenerative changes in normal and Alzheimer's disease brain,' received the first prize and was awarded a Gold Medal. Dr. Pravin R Rathod is a dedicated medical professional with a deep commitment to lifelong learning and knowledge enhancement. His passion for staying updated in the field of medicine has driven him to pursue various Continuing Medical Education (CME) programs and medical courses. Notably, he has completed online courses at renowned institutions such as Edinburgh University and Duke University, specifically focusing on neurodegenerative diseases. With a multifaceted background and a keen interest in medical education, Dr. Rathod actively teaches Basic Science students across different trimesters. His areas of expertise include Gross Anatomy, Embryology, Histology, and Neuroanatomy. As part of his teaching responsibilities, he conducts lectures, guides cadaver dissections, demonstrates Embryology models, and provides valuable insights into Osteology, Radiology, and Histology. Dr. Rathod's teaching experience extends to both undergraduate and postgraduate medical students pursuing various medical, paramedical, and non-clinical courses. In addition to his academic pursuits, he actively conducts research on Alzheimer's Disease and age-related degenerative changes in the human brain. His contributions to the field of anatomy through original research publications have further solidified his commitment to advancing medical knowledge and inspiring the future generation of healthcare professionals. In addition to his teaching and research roles, Dr. Rathod serves as an NBME (National Board of Medical Examination) "Test constructor coordinator" since January 2023, where he contributes to the development and evaluation of medical examinations. Furthermore, he actively participates in various University committees, leveraging his expertise and insights to contribute meaningfully to the academic community. Dr. Rathod's dedication to his profession is evident through his membership in various National and International Medical associations, where he collaborates with like-minded professionals to stay abreast of the latest developments and advancements in the medical field.

Dr Mede blessy Niharika

Senior Lecturer, Department of Pathology

Senior Lecturer, Department of Pathology Dr Mede blessy Niharika joined Spartan Health Science University as a Senior Lecturer in the Department of pathology since 2023. Dr. Blessy had 5 years of past experience as a teacher and researcher in clinical pharmacology. She had participated in community awareness programs on drug safety and monitoring. She worked along with the pharmacovigilance program of India from a local pharmacovigilance centre and reported various adverse drug reactions. She completed her medical graduation(MBBS) in 2015 and served to the needy in her local community for 3years. Her passion for teaching and research made her join pharmacology in 2018 and since then she is working with strong dedication and a great desire for the success of medical students. Her excellent oral communication skills and versatile teaching methods will engage students and make learning enjoyable.

Dr Lisa Monrose

Assistant Professor

Dr Lisa Monrose Assistant Professor, Clinical Skills Department of Clinical Sciences Dr Lisa Monrose is a St Lucian born Physician who has been a primary care physician for approximately two decades. She obtained her MBBs from the St Augustine Campus, University of the West Indies (Trinidad) and her Masters and Doctorate in Family Medicine, from Cave Hill Campus, University of the West Indies, Barbados. She has served as a primary care physician in Barbados and St Lucia both in the private and public health care systems. Including the Queen Elizabeth Hospital and Elcourt Clinic. Presently she serves the southern community of Vieux Fort, St Lucia at the Black Bay Medical Facility. Dr Monrose has been an educator for many years and currently is an associate professor at the Spartan Health Sciences University; School of Medicine. She has been the leading consultant to PAHO (Pan American Health Organization), CARPHA (Caribbean Health Agency) and the OECS (Organization of Eastern Caribbean States) on projects such as "CARPA Guidelines for the Management of Diabetes in Primary Care in The Caribbean” and “The Adolescent Tool Kit Project.