Apkar Vania Apkarian is a pioneer in the use of magnetic resonance spectroscopy (a specialized technique associated with MRI) to study the neurochemistry of the brain. Apkarian’s research has focused on the physiology, causes, and mechanisms of pain, and chronic pain in particular. His research has also led to new strategies for the development of pain medications.

Apkarian holds a master’s degree in electrical engineering from USC and a PhD in neuroscience from the State University of New York Health Science Center. He is a professor of physiology, surgery, and anesthesia at the Neuroscience Institute of Northwestern University Medical School, and a member of the school’s elite Cognitive Brain Mapping Group.