Dr Athikhun Suwannakhan PhD

Dr Athikhun Suwannakhan

Department of Biomedical Sciences
Assistant Professor

Contact details

Email
a.suwannakhan@bham.ac.uk
Address
University of Birmingham
Edgbaston
Birmingham
B15 2TT
UK

Dr Suwannakhan’s research focuses on clinical anatomy, anatomical variations, medical imaging, and anatomy education. His work aims to improve anatomical knowledge and its application in clinical practice and healthcare education through both original research and evidence synthesis.

He has published more than 60 peer-reviewed articles in international scientific journals and actively contributes to the academic community as a peer reviewer and editorial board member. In recognition of his research achievements, he received the Young Anatomical Researcher Award 2024 from the Anatomy Association of Thailand.

Qualifications

  • PhD Anatomy and Structural Biology, Mahidol University

Biography

Dr Athikhun Suwannakhan obtained his BSc in Biological Sciences from Mahidol University International College in 2016 before completing a PhD in Anatomy and Structural Biology at Mahidol University in 2021. Prior to joining the University of Birmingham in 2026, he served as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Thailand. 

Throughout his academic career, Dr Suwannakhan has taught gross anatomy, histology and neuroanatomy across undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. He has extensive experience in cadaveric anatomy, including the preparation and dissection of both formalin- and Thiel-embalmed donors, and has contributed to the development of innovative anatomy curricula and practical teaching resources. 

At the University of Birmingham, Dr Suwannakhan continues to develop research in clinical anatomy and anatomy education while contributing to undergraduate and postgraduate teaching in human anatomy and supporting transnational education initiatives.

Teaching

  • MBChB
  • MSci Pharmacy

Research

His research interests encompass clinical anatomy, anatomical variations, medical imaging, anatomy education, and evidence synthesis through systematic reviews and meta-analyses. His work has received national recognition, including the Young Anatomical Researcher Award from the Anatomy Association of Thailand in 2024 and the Early Career Research Award from the Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, in 2025.

Other activities

  • Member of the Anatomical Society
  • Member of the Anatomy Association of Thailand

Publications

  • Suwannakhan, A., Khamsai, S., Pratipanawatr, T., Kirisattayakul, W., Munkong, W., Prab Na Sak, N., Phonsena, W., Iamsaard, S. and Senarai, T. (2026), Ultrasound assessment of tibial nerve cross-sectional area in diabetic peripheral neuropathy in the Thai population. PLOS ONE, 21: e0343128.
  • Suphamungmee, W., Taradolpisut, N., Yurasakpong, L., Senarai, T. and Suwannakhan, A. (2026), The prevalence of pancreas divisum and its association with pancreatic diseases: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Medicina, 62: 953.
  • Prommahom, A., Jankham, C., Duangsuwan, P. and Suwannakhan, A. (2026), Bilateral subclavius posticus innervated by the lateral pectoral nerve: A cadaveric and ultrasound case report. Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 48: 65.
  • Alzir, I., Triantafyllou, G., Luzzi, S., Papadopoulos-Manolarakis, P., Suwannakhan, A., Samolis, A., Tsakotos, G. and Piagkou, M. (2026), A systematic review with meta-analysis of the mastoid emissary foramen: Implications for posterior cranial fossa surgery. World Neurosurgery, 209: 124895.
  • Taradolpisut, N., Weerachatyanukul, W., Suphamungmee, W., Asuvapongpatana, S., Luanphaisarnnont, T., Chaiyamoon, A., Berkban, T., Halliwell, T., Wilkinson, T. and Suwannakhan, A. (2025), The use of technical grade chemicals and on-site production of ammonium nitrate: a cost-effective and safer approach to Thiel embalming. Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 47: 157.
  • Paensukyen, T., Kanjanapaisan, P., Taradolpisut, N., Kruepunga, N., Jitaree, B., Thintharua, P., Chaiyamoon, A. and Suwannakhan, A. (2025), Anatomical study and classification of foramina of the squamous part of the temporal bone. Clinical Anatomy. https://doi.org/10.1002/ca.70024.