Vaneesha completed her Bachelors degree in Physiology at the University of Bristol in 2011, followed by a Masters degree in Nutrition, Physical Activity and Public Health in 2012. Vaneesha then went on to do a PhD investigating perioperative nutrition practices, also at the University of Bristol, with the Bristol Biomedical Research Unit in Nutrition, Diet and Lifestyle. During her PhD, Vaneesha conducted a qualitative study exploring patient experiences of perioperative nutrition, led a Cochrane systematic review and meta-analysis of the use of chewing gum for postoperative recovery of gastrointestinal function, and designed and conducted an observational study exploring predictors and outcomes of early resumption of postoperative diet. Prior to her current role, she has worked in neonatal clinical research for several years as a Trial Manager, working on multicentre clinical trials of investigational medicinal products.

Vaneesha provides a leadership role within the Paediatric Neuroimaging research group, and general oversight and management of the group’s research activities. She is responsible for the group's research governance and the coordination of multiple projects, and is involved in developing the future direction of the research group. Vaneesha plays a central role in liaising with funding bodies and project stakeholders, and she is responsible for ensuring that targets are met, research projects are designed well and conducted to a high quality, DPhil supervision, and staff recruitment and management. Vaneesha also leads the operational development and growth of the research group, and liaises with the charity Support for the Sick Newborn and their Parents (SSNAP) regarding PPI with the research group’s activities.