Dr. Mrunal Phatak — Professor, Dean (Academics), & Head of Physiology at AIIMS Nagpur

Dr. Mrunal Phatak is a distinguished medical professional serving as Professor and Head of the Department of Physiology, as well as Dean (Academics) at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Nagpur, one of India’s premier medical institutions.

Academic Qualifications & Professional Role

Dr. Phatak completed her MBBS and MD in Physiology, building a strong foundation in both clinical medicine and physiological sciences. At AIIMS Nagpur, she leads the Physiology Department — a key academic division responsible for training medical students in foundational sciences essential to clinical practice. In her administrative role as Dean (Academics), Dr. Phatak oversees academic policy, curriculum development, examinations, and the overall educational quality for undergraduate and postgraduate programs at the institute. She has also been associated with the editorial boards of peer-reviewed medical journals, contributing to academic scholarship beyond her primary institutional responsibilities.

Research Interests & Publications

Dr. Phatak has contributed to multiple scientific publications and research studies. Her research spans areas such as:

• Impact of Rajayoga meditation on glycemic control in type 2 diabetes
• Respiratory health and spirometry in adults exposed to bioaerosols
• Influence of domestic cooking environments on respiratory morbidities in women
• Physiological changes in pregnancy and the benefits of postpartum exercise

She has also co-authored books and book chapters addressing topics ranging from sedentary lifestyles to advanced physiological concepts.

Expertise & Specialized Contributions

Her academic and clinical expertise includes:

• Autonomic nervous system testing
• Andrology and reproductive physiology
• Lung function assessment
• Yoga and exercise physiology
• Medical education and pedagogy

Dr. Phatak is actively involved in faculty development programs, medical education workshops, and research methodology training for postgraduate students, contributing significantly to capacity building within the medical education ecosystem.

Leadership in Healthcare Initiatives

Under her academic leadership, AIIMS Nagpur has strengthened its community-oriented healthcare initiatives. One notable example is the Lifestyle Medicine Clinic under the Department of Physiology, which focuses on preventive and holistic management of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disorders. The clinic emphasizes lifestyle modification through diet, physical activity, sleep hygiene, stress management, and behavioral health, reflecting Dr. Phatak’s integrative and preventive approach to healthcare. She also serves as a patron, advisor, and academic leader for national conferences, continuing medical education (CME) programs, and multidisciplinary academic collaborations.

Professional Memberships & Recognition

Dr. Phatak is associated with several national and international professional bodies, including:

• Academy of Physiology, Nagpur
• Association of Physiology and Pharmacology
• Indian Medical Association
• Medical Women’s Association
• American Physiological Society
• Physiological Society (UK)
• Association of Physiologists of India

Through these affiliations, she contributes to advancing academic standards, professional development, and research collaboration at both national and international levels. Dr. Mrunal Phatak is widely respected for her academic leadership, research contributions, and commitment to medical education excellence. As Professor, Head of Physiology, and Dean (Academics) at AIIMS Nagpur, she plays a pivotal role in shaping future healthcare professionals and promoting evidence-based, preventive, and holistic healthcare practices.