School of Medicine
Showing 1-100 of 159 Results
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John R. Adler, MD
The Dorothy and Thye King Chan Professor in Neurosurgery, Emeritus
Current Research and Scholarly InterestsThe development and implementation of computerized, image-guided surgical tools to be used during minimally invasive brain operations. The clinical outcome of new technologies, and in particular the application of radiosurgery, for the treatment of brain tumors. The creation of new radiosurgical techniques for a wide array of brain and spine disorders.
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Gregory W. Albers, MD
Coyote Foundation Professor and Professor, by courtesy, of Neurosurgery
Current Research and Scholarly InterestsOur group's research focus is the acute treatment and prevention of cerebrovascular disorders. Our primary interest is the use of advanced imaging techniques to expand the treatment window for ischemic stroke. We are also conducting clinical studies of both neuroprotective and thrombolytic strategies for the treatment of acute stroke and investigating new antithrombotic strategies for stroke prevention.
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Matei Banu, MD
Clinical Assistant Professor, Neurosurgery
BioDr. Matei Banu is a fellowship-trained neurosurgeon at Stanford Health Care. He is also a clinical assistant professor in the Department of Neurosurgery at Stanford University School of Medicine.
Dr. Banu specializes in treating brain, skull base, and pituitary tumors. He also specializes in the management of the buildup of brain fluid (hydrocephalus) and related conditions. He is skilled in minimally invasive techniques, such as microscopic surgery (using microscopes and tiny instruments to repair small structures) and endoscopic techniques (using a thin, flexible tube to take pictures inside the body).
Dr. Banu often collaborates with rhinologists (doctors who diagnose and treat diseases of the nose and sinuses), head and neck surgeons, and otologists (doctors who diagnose and treat ear-related conditions). His goals are ensuring each patient receives comprehensive care and providing precise, compassionate treatment that enhances each patient’s quality of life.
His research interests include developing personalized treatment strategies for brain and skull base cancers. Dr. Banu is exploring how aggressive tumors grow, resist treatment, and evade the immune system. Using tumor samples from patients, Dr. Banu and his team are testing novel drugs to create more effective therapies.
Dr. Banu has published his research in several peer-reviewed journals, including Lancet Oncology, Cell, Nature Cell Biology, and Nature Communications. He has also contributed book chapters on topics like pediatric endoscopic skull base surgery and drug delivery for brain tumors. He has shared his findings at numerous national and international meetings in neurosurgery and oncology.
Dr. Banu is a member of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, the Congress of Neurological Surgeons, the North American Skull Base Society, and the Society for Neuro-Oncology. -
Mahendra T. Bhati
Clinical Professor, Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences
Clinical Professor, NeurosurgeryBioDr. Bhati is an interventional psychiatrist with expertise in psychiatric diagnosis, psychopharmacology, and neuromodulation. He completed postdoctoral research studying language abnormalities and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) evoked potentials in schizophrenia. He was a principal investigator for the DSM-5 academic field trials, and his research experiences included roles in the first controlled clinical trials of TMS and deep brain stimulation (DBS) for treatment of depression. He was the founding Chief of Interventional Psychiatry at Stanford where he performs consultations and provides pharmacological and neuromodulatory treatments. His current research interests include studying magnetic resonance imaging and augmented reality to target TMS, vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) for treatment-resistant depression, DBS for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and depression, responsive neurostimulation (RNS) for treatment of impulse and fear-related disorders, and focused ultrasound (FUS) for treatment-resistant OCD and depression. Dr. Bhati seeks to train more providers in mental healthcare and founded a clinical fellowship in Interventional Psychiatry at Stanford.
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Nikolas Blevins, MD
Larry and Sharon Malcolmson Professor in the School of Medicine, Professor of Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery (OHNS) and, by courtesy, of Neurosurgery
Current Research and Scholarly InterestsInner ear microendoscopy -- Developing techniques for minimally-invasive imaging of inner ear microanatomy and neural pysiology. Applications include improved cochlear implant development, inner ear regenerative techniques, inner ear surgery, and auditory physiology.
Microsurgical robotics -- Developing scalable microsurgical instrumentation and robotic techniques for use in head and neck surgery.
Surgical Simulation -- Immersive environment for temporal bone surgical simulation. -
Helen Bronte-Stewart, MD, MS
John E. Cahill Family Professor, Professor of Neurology and Neurological Sciences (Adult Neurology) and, by courtesy, of Neurosurgery
On Partial Leave from 07/07/2025 To 12/19/2025Current Research and Scholarly InterestsMy research focus is human motor control and brain pathophysiology in movement disorders. Our overall goal is to understand the role of the basal ganglia electrical activity in the pathogenesis of movement disorders. We have developed novel computerized technology to measure fine, limb and postural movement. With these we are measuring local field potentials in basal ganglia nuclei in patients with Parkinson's disease and dystonian and correlating brain signalling with motor behavior.
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Vivek P. Buch, MD
Assistant Professor of Neurosurgery and, by courtesy, of Bioengineering
BioDr. Buch is a neurosurgeon with fellowship training in epilepsy, functional, and minimally invasive neurosurgery. He is an Assistant Professor of Neurosurgery, and Christina and Hamid Moghadam Faculty Scholar at Stanford University.
Dr. Buch focuses his expertise on the open and minimally invasive treatment of epilepsy, low grade brain tumors, movement and neuropsychiatric disorders, facial and body pain syndromes, and other complex neurological conditions. He uses advanced and innovative techniques to treat both adult and pediatric patients. For each patient, he develops a personalized care plan that is designed to be both comprehensive and compassionate.
Dr. Buch has conducted extensive research. His career goal is to develop restorative bioengineering approaches for complex neurocognitive, neurodevelopmental, and neuropsychiatric disorders. He is creating network-neuroprosthetics and precision molecular therapies to restore abnormal brain circuit function in these vulnerable patient populations. He is further pioneering novel intraoperative technologies including personalized network-based targeting, holographic mixed reality, and artificial intelligence platforms for minimally invasive cranial surgery.
He has co-authored articles on his research discoveries in Science, Nature, Nature Medicine, Neuron, Brain, Annals of Surgery, Frontiers in Neuroscience, Epilepsia, Brain Stimulation, Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery, Surgical Innovation, Frontiers in Surgery, Journal of Neurosurgery, and many other journals. Articles focus on developing novel network control theory applications to human brain functions and new techniques and technologies to enhance neurosurgical effectiveness and patient outcomes.
He is the Section Editor for NEUROSURGERY, and a guest editor for Surgical Innovation and Brain Sciences. He also has co-authored chapters in the books Neurosurgical Atlas, Operative Techniques in Epilepsy Surgery, Deep Brain Stimulation, and The Encyclopedia of Medical Robotics.
Dr. Buch has presented the findings of his research at the national conferences of numerous professional associations. Among them are the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, Society for Neuroscience, Congress of Neurological Surgeons, and Society for Imaging Informatics in Medicine. Topics include understanding network mechanisms of cognitive control and advances in the use of augmented reality technology to enhance neurosurgical approaches.
For his clinical, research, and academic achievements. Dr. Buch has earned many honors. He has won awards from the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, American Roentgen Ray Society, Congress of Neurological Surgeons, and National Institutes of Health.
Dr. Buch is a member of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, Congress of Neurological Surgeons, World Society for Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery, American Association of Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery, and Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society.
He holds patents on such topics as artificial intelligence systems designed to help guide surgery and neural control signals for behavioral modification and closed-loop stimulation therapy.
Essential tremor patient story: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fV6BzyU9b3c
Parkinson's disease patient story: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vAKP7SRKs08
Epilepsy patient story: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HXy-gXg0t94&t=3s
Deep brain stimulation treatment: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xLgEcb447gA&t=1s
Laser interstitial thermal therapy treatment: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z-nRUMbs2kY&t=2s
MR-guided focused ultrasound treatment: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Bwq2YxD9eU -
Marion S. Buckwalter, MD, PhD
Professor of Neurology and Neurological Sciences (Adult Neurology) and of Neurosurgery
Current Research and Scholarly InterestsThe goal of the Buckwalter Lab is to improve how people recover after a stroke. We use basic and clinical research to understand the cells, proteins, and genes that lead to successful recovery of function, and also how complications develop that impact quality of life after stroke. Ongoing projects are focused on understanding how inflammatory responses are regulated after a stroke and how they affect short-term brain injury and long term outcomes like dementia and depression.
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Tene Aneka Cage
Clinical Associate Professor, Neurosurgery
Current Research and Scholarly InterestsDr. Cage's research interest is in working towards eliminating health disparities in neurosurgical outcomes. She specifically focuses on understanding the association between socioeconomic and demographic characteristics and patient outcomes following traumatic brain injury.
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David Camarillo
Associate Professor of Bioengineering and, by courtesy, of Neurosurgery and of Mechanical Engineering
BioDavid B. Camarillo is Associate Professor of Bioengineering, (by courtesy) Mechanical Engineering and Neurosurgery at Stanford University. Dr. Camarillo holds a B.S.E in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering from Princeton University, a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Stanford University and completed postdoctoral fellowships in Biophysics at the UCSF and Biodesign Innovation at Stanford. Dr. Camarillo worked in the surgical robotics industry at Intuitive Surgical and Hansen Medical, before launching his laboratory at Stanford in 2012. His current research focuses on precision human measurement for multiple clinical and physiological areas including the brain, heart, lungs, and reproductive system. Dr. Camarillo has been awarded the Hellman Fellowship, the Office of Naval Research Young Investigator Program award, among other honors including multiple best paper awards in brain injury and robotic surgery. His research has been funded by the NIH, NSF, DoD, as well as corporations and private philanthropy. His lab’s research has been featured on NPR, the New York Times, The Washington Post, Science News, ESPN, and TED.com as well as other media outlets aimed at education of the public.
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Pak H. Chan
The James R. Doty Professor in Neurosurgery and Neurosciences, Emeritus
Current Research and Scholarly InterestsNeuronal death and regeneration after strokeand neural injury
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Venita Chandra
Clinical Professor, Surgery - Vascular Surgery
Clinical Professor (By courtesy), NeurosurgeryBioDr. Chandra is a board certified vascular surgeon who specializes in cutting edge approaches to aortic aneurysmal disease, peripheral vascular disease and limb salvage.
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Steven D. Chang, MD
Robert C. and Jeannette Powell Neurosciences Professor and, by courtesy, of Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery (OHNS) and of Neurology and Neurological Sciences
Current Research and Scholarly InterestsClinical research includes studies in the treatment of cerebrovascular disorders, such as aneurysms and AVMs, as well as the use of radiosurgery to treat tumors and vascular malformations of the brain and spine.
Dr. Chang is C0-Director of the Cyberknife Radiosurgery Program.
Dr. Chang is also the head of the The Stanford Neuromolecular Innovation Program with the goal of developing new technologies to improve the diagnosis and treatment of patients affected by neurological conditions. -
Hansen Chen
Instructor, Neurosurgery
Current Research and Scholarly InterestsImmune and Nervous Systems Interaction; Ischemic Postconditioning; Optogenetics
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Lu Chen
Professor of Neurosurgery and of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences
Current Research and Scholarly InterestsWhat distinguishes us humans from other animals is our ability to undergo complex behavior. The synapses are the structural connection between neurons that mediates the communication between neurons, which underlies our various cognitive function. My research program aims to understand the cellular and molecular mechanisms that underlie synapse function during behavior in the developing and mature brain, and how synapse function is altered during mental retardation.
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Yi-Ren Chen, MD, MPH, FAANS
Adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor, Neurosurgery
BioDr. Chen is a neurosurgeon and spine surgeon and Chief of Neurosurgery with Mercy Medical Group, Sacramento County, CA, as well as an Adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor of Neurosurgery at Stanford University. After double majoring in biology and history at Stanford, he obtained his MD from Stanford and MPH from Johns Hopkins. He subsequently completed neurosurgery residency and complex spine fellowship at Stanford. Dr. Chen has over 150 peer-reviewed papers, book chapters, talks, and abstracts. He serves the greater Sacramento area and beyond.
Clinical interests:
Minimally invasive spine, scoliosis and deformity, redo/ revision spinal surgery, complex spine, general neurosurgery
Administrative Appointments:
Chief of Neurosurgery, Mercy Medical Group/ Dignity Health Sacramento, Sacramento County, CA
Professional Education:
Undergraduate: Stanford University (BA/ BS)
Medical School: Stanford University (MD)
Masters: Johns Hopkins (MPH)
Residency: Stanford University (Neurosurgery)
Fellowship: Stanford University (Minimally Invasive and Complex Deformity Spine)
Fellowship: San Diego Spine Foundation (Visiting Fellow in Minimally Invasive Spine)
Board Certification: American Board of Neurological Surgery, Neurosurgery
Research interests:
Clinical outcomes research on spine patients utilizing both large-scale nationwide databases and single-center patient information, focusing on improving quality of care, patient satisfaction, and hospital-wide outcomes. -
E.J. Chichilnisky
John R. Adler Professor, Professor of Neurosurgery and of Ophthalmology and, by courtesy, of Electrical Engineering
Current Research and Scholarly InterestsFunctional circuitry of the retina and design of retinal prostheses
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S. Charles Cho, MD
Clinical Professor, Adult Neurology
Clinical Professor (By courtesy), NeurosurgeryCurrent Research and Scholarly InterestsClinical research focused on peripheral nerve and muscle disorders. Also involved with prevention of cerebrovascular disesase in the intraoperative setting. Ongoing clincial studies include treatments for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Inflammatory Demyelinating Neuropathy and HIV neuropathic pain.
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Eun Young Choi, PhD
Instructor, Neurosurgery
Current Research and Scholarly InterestsDr. Choi is broadly interested in mapping the brain’s connectivity and characterizing its functional dynamics using advanced neuroimaging and clinical neurophysiological methods, as well as translating this information to identify individual-specific neurosurgical targets and treatment strategies using neuromodulation (e.g., deep brain stimulation). Her prior work has mapped the functional and connectional organization of the cortex, striatum, and thalamus using neuroimaging and NHP neuroanatomical tract-tracing. A current focus is on the use of thalamic deep brain stimulation to improve memory and attention in traumatic brain injury and Alzheimer’s disease.
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Graham Creasey
Paralyzed Veterans of America Professor of Spinal Cord Injury Medicine, Emeritus
Current Research and Scholarly InterestsNeural prostheses to stimulate and record from the peripheral and central nervous system, thereby directly connecting nervous systems with electronic systems
Neural prostheses for control of bladder, bowel and sexual function after spinal cord injury -
Kyle Gabriel Daniels
Assistant Professor of Genetics and, by courtesy, of Neurosurgery (Adult Neurosurgery)
BioKyle obtained his BS in Biochemistry from the University of Maryland College Park in 2010, conducting undergraduate research with Dr. Dorothy Beckett, PhD. He obtained his PhD in Biochemistry with a certificate in Structural Biology and Biophysics. His dissertation is titled "Kinetics of Coupled Binding and Conformational Change in Proteins and RNA" and was completed in the laboratory of Dr. Terrence G. Oas, PhD. Kyle performed postdoctoral training with Dr. Wendell A. Lim, PhD at UCSF studying how CAR T cell phenotype is encoded by modular signaling motifs within chimeric antigen receptors.
Kyle's lab is interested in harnessing the principles of modularity to engineer receptors and gene circuits to control cell functions.
The lab will use synthetic biology, medium- and high-throughput screens, and machine learning to: (1) Engineer immune cells to achieve robust and durable responses against various cancer targets, (2) Coordinate behavior of multiple engineered cell types in cancer, autoimmune disease, and payload delivery, (3) Control survival, proliferation, and differentiation of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) and immune cells, and (4) Explore principles of modularity related to engineering receptors and gene circuits in mammalian cells. -
Atman Desai, MD
Clinical Professor, Neurosurgery
Current Research and Scholarly InterestsThe Stanford Spine Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, led by Dr. Atman Desai MD, MA, FACS, is a collaboration of Stanford neurosurgeons, radiologists, orthopedic surgeons and data scientists who share the goal of advancing the field of artificial intelligence to provide better surgical outcomes for spine patients. Our laboratory works closely with the Stanford Center for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine and Imaging, and studies the application of computer vision and deep learning to spinal i
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Jun Ding
Professor of Neurosurgery and of Neurology and Neurological Sciences
Current Research and Scholarly InterestsNeural circuits of movement control in health and movement disorders
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Robert Dodd, MD, PhD
Associate Professor of Neurosurgery, of Radiology and, by courtesy, of Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery (OHNS)
Current Research and Scholarly InterestsDr. Dodd is involved in clinical trials using endovascular coils that have a fiber coating that help heal aneurysms of the neck and can prevent an aneurysm from reforming. He uses minimally invasive endoscopic techniques to treat brain tumors.
Dodd's research interests are in cerebral blood vessel reactivity and stroke. -
Ryann Fame, PhD
Assistant Professor of Neurosurgery
Current Research and Scholarly InterestsEarly neural progenitors respond to extrinsic cues that maintain and support their potency. These stem/ progenitor cells are in direct contact with the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which acts as part of their niche. Our research program encompasses the early neural stem cell niche, neural tube closure, CSF, metabolism, and cortical neuronal development. We are dedicated to broad collaboration focused on translating an understanding of neurodevelopment and CSF biology into regenerative strategies.
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Rongxin Fang
Assistant Professor of Neurosurgery and, by courtesy, of Genetics
BioRongxin Fang received his Ph.D. in Bioinformatics and Systems Biology from the University of California, San Diego, under the mentorship of Bing Ren (2015–2019). During his doctoral training, he developed high-throughput genomic technologies and computational tools to map the structure and activity of the mammalian genome at large scale and single-cell resolution. He then applied these approaches to investigate how cis-regulatory elements - such as enhancers - control gene expression and drive the diverse transcriptional programs underlying cellular diversity in the mammalian brain. As an HHMI–Damon Runyon Postdoctoral Fellow at Harvard University (2019–2024), he worked with Xiaowei Zhuang. Rongxin developed and applied genome-scale, volumetric 3D transcriptome imaging methods to map the molecular and cellular architecture of the mammalian brain across evolution and aging. He also contributed to the collaboration with Adam Cohen and Catherine Dulac to integrate transcriptome imaging with functional neuronal imaging, identifying neuronal populations in the animal brain that underlie specific brain functions.
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Juan Carlos Fernandez-Miranda, MD, FACS
Professor of Neurosurgery and, by courtesy, of Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery (OHNS)
BioDr. Juan Fernandez-Miranda is Professor of Neurosurgery and Surgical Director of the Stanford Brain Tumor, Skull Base, and Pituitary Centers. He is internationally renowned for his expertise in minimally invasive brain surgery, endoscopic skull base and pituitary surgery, open skull base surgery, and complex brain tumor surgery. He has performed nearly 3,000 cranial operations including over 1,500 endoscopic endonasal operations for pituitary tumors and other skull base lesions. He is highly regarded for his innovative contributions to the development and refinement of endoscopic endonasal skull base surgery, for his ability to select the most effective and less invasive approach to each individual patient, and for his precise knowledge of the intricate anatomy of the white matter tracts required to maximize resection and minimize morbidity on high and low grade glioma patients. He has been recently ranked by Expertscape as World-Expert (top 0.05%) on Skull Base Surgery and #1 Neurosurgeon Expert on Skull Base Tumors (pituitary adenomas, meningiomas, craniopharyngiomas, chordomas, chondrosarcomas, schwannomas and esthesioneuroblastomas) on the US Pacific Region. He is co-founder and vice-president of the International Rhoton Society and executive member of the Board of Directors of the The Neurosurgical Atlas, the largest nonprofit organization for neurosurgical education and research in the world.
Dr. Fernandez-Miranda completed neurosurgery residency at La Paz University Hospital in Madrid, Spain. Upon completion of his residency, he was awarded the Sanitas Prize to the best medical postgraduate trainee in the country. From 2005 to 2007, he underwent fellowship training in microsurgical neuroanatomy at the University of Florida under legendary neurosurgeon Albert L. Rhoton, Jr. From 2007 to 2010 he continued subspecialty clinical training in cerebrovascular surgery at the University of Virginia, and endoscopic endonasal and open skull base surgery at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC). During his 10-year tenure at UPMC, he pioneered endoscopic endonasal approaches to highly complex pituitary and skull base tumors, developed a world-class complex brain surgery program, and led a premier training and research program on surgical neuroanatomy and skull base surgery.
In 2018, he was recruited to bring to Stanford his unique technical expertise and to collaborate with world-renowned Stanford colleagues across multiple disciplines, leading the establishment of one of the most preeminent centers worldwide for comprehensive treatment of complex lesions in the brain, skull base, and pituitary regions. His top priority is to provide gentle, accurate, and safe surgery, in a team-based and compassionate approach to patient care. -
Margaret S. Ferris, MD
Clinical Assistant Professor, Adult Neurology
Clinical Assistant Professor (By courtesy), NeurosurgeryBioDr. Ferris is a fellowship-trained neurologist and Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Neurology, Division of Movement Disorders.
She diagnoses and treats a breath of movement disorders such as Parkinson’s disease and essential tremor. She recognizes the broad effects of these conditions on daily living and aims to develop personalized, comprehensive treatment plans that optimize health and quality of life.
Dr. Ferris research interests focus on access to interventional therapies for movement disorders. She has participated in investigations sponsored by the National Institutes of to evaluate advanced treatments for complications of Parkinson’s disease.
She has co-authored articles in publications such as Nature, The Neurohospitalist, and BioMed Central (BMC) Genomics. She has presented her insights about innovations in the understanding, detection, and management of movement disorders at conferences including, the Society for Neuroscience Annual Meeting, Pan American Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders Congress.
She is a member of the American Academy of Neurology and the Movement Disorder Society.
Essential tremor patient story: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fV6BzyU9b3c -
Paul Graham Fisher, MD
Beirne Family Professor of Pediatric Neuro-Oncology, Professor of Pediatrics and, by courtesy, of Neurosurgery and of Epidemiology and Population Health
Current Research and Scholarly InterestsClinical neuro-oncology: My research explores the epidemiology, natural history, and disease patterns of brain tumors and other cancers in childhood, as well as prospective clinical trials for treating these neoplasms. Research interests also include neurologic effects of cancer and its therapies.
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Robert Fisher, MD, PhD
The Maslah Saul, MD, Professor and Professor, by courtesy, of Neurosurgery
Current Research and Scholarly InterestsDr. Fisher is interested in clincal, laboratory and translational aspects of epilepsy research. Prior work has included: electrical deep brain stimulation for epilepsy, studied in laboratory models and clinical trials; drug delivery to a seizure focus; mechanisms of absence epilepsy studied with in vitro slices of brain thalamus; hyperthermic seizures; diagnosis and treatment of non-epileptic seizures, the post-ictal state; driving and epilepsy; new antiepileptic drugs; surgery for epilepsy.
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Paul George, MD, PhD
Associate Professor of Neurology and Neurological Sciences (Adult Neurology) and, by courtesy, of Neurosurgery
Current Research and Scholarly InterestsCONDUCTIVE POLYMER SCAFFOLDS FOR STEM CELL-ENHANCED STROKE RECOVERY:
We focus on developing conductive polymers for stem cell applications. We have created a microfabricated, polymeric system that can continuously interact with its biological environment. This interactive polymer platform allows modifications of the recovery environment to determine essential repair mechanisms. Recent work studies the effect of electrical stimulation on neural stem cells seeded on the conductive scaffold and the pathways by which it enhances stroke recovery Further understanding the combined effect of electrical stimulation and stem cells in augmenting neural repair for clinical translational is a major focus of this research going forward.
BIOPOLYMER SYSTEMS FOR NEURAL RECOVERY AND STEM CELL MODULATION:
The George lab develops biomaterials to improve neural recovery in the peripheral and central nervous systems. By controlled release of drugs and molecules through biomaterials we can study the temporal effect of these neurotrophic factors on neural recovery and engineer drug delivery systems to enhance regenerative effects. By identifying the critical mechanisms for stroke and neural recovery, we are able to develop polymeric technologies for clinical translation in nerve regeneration and stroke recovery. Recent work utilizing these novel conductive polymers to differentiate stem cells for therapeutic and drug discovery applications.
APPLYING ENGINEERING TECHNIQUES TO DETERMINE BIOMARKERS FOR STROKE DIAGNOSTICS:
The ability to create diagnostic assays and techniques enables us to understand biological systems more completely and improve clinical management. Previous work utilized mass spectroscopy proteomics to find a simple serum biomarker for TIAs (a warning sign of stroke). Our study discovered a novel candidate marker, platelet basic protein. Current studies are underway to identify further candidate biomarkers using transcriptome analysis. More accurate diagnosis will allow for aggressive therapies to prevent subsequent strokes. -
Iris C. Gibbs, MD, FACR, FASTRO
Professor of Radiation Oncology (Radiation Therapy) and, by courtesy, of Neurosurgery
Current Research and Scholarly InterestsDr. Gibbs is a board-certified radiation oncologist who specializes in the treatment of CNS tumors. Her research focuses on developing new radiation techniques to manage brain and spinal tumors in adults and children. Dr. Gibbs has gained worldwide acclaim for her expertise in Cyberknife robotic radiosurgery.
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Carl Gold
Clinical Associate Professor, Adult Neurology
Clinical Associate Professor (By courtesy), NeurosurgeryBioDr. Gold is a board-certified neurologist who is fellowship-trained in the diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders in hospitalized patients. He cares for a broad range of patients, including individuals with seizures, central nervous system infections, autoimmune diseases, headaches, neuromuscular conditions, and neurological complications of cancer.
Dr. Gold serves as Vice Chair of Quality, Safety, & Experience for the Department of Neurology & Neurological Sciences. In this role, he coordinates projects aimed at improving care for patients with neurological conditions across the health system. He also serves as Medical Director of Service Excellence for Stanford Health Care.
For more information on the Stanford Neurohospitalist Program & Fellowship, please visit: https://med.stanford.edu/neurology/divisions/neurohospitalist.html
Learn more about the Stanford Neurology Communication Coaching Program by visiting: http://med.stanford.edu/neurology/education/resident-coaching.html
Additional information on Stanford Neurology's efforts in Quality, Safety, & Value can be found here: http://med.stanford.edu/neurology/quality.html -
Pardes Habib
Instructor, Neurosurgery
BioPardes Habib, MD/PhD, is an Instructor in the Department of Neurosurgery at Stanford University School of Medicine. His research focuses on how human neural stem cells (hNSCs) drive brain repair after chronic stroke. By integrating state-of-the-art imaging (MRI/PET) with spatially resolved multi omics, he maps structural and molecular remodeling after stroke and aims to identify diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers that drive the development and refinement of precision, cell-based therapies.
Dr. Habib completed dual doctorates in Neurology/Neuroscience (MD/PhD) and Biochemistry (PhD) at RWTH Aachen University in Germany, where he later earned a Habilitation (Venia Legendi) in Experimental Neurology—an academic qualification comparable to an associate professorship.
As head of Aachen’s Translational Stroke Research Group, he investigated neuroprotective and neuroinflammatory pathways and illuminated the roles of inflammasome activation and the unfolded protein response in acute ischemic stroke.
Since joining Dr. Gary Steinberg’s laboratory at Stanford in 2022, Dr. Habib has focused on decoding the molecular crosstalk among hNSCs, immune cells, and host neural circuits. His long-term goal is to transform these insights into targeted interventions that restore function and quality of life for patients living with the aftermath of stroke. -
Seunggu Jude Han, MD
Clinical Associate Professor, Neurosurgery
BioDr. Han is a board-certified neurosurgeon with fellowship training in neuro-oncology. He is also a clinical associate professor in the Department of Neurosurgery at Stanford University School of Medicine and chief of neurosurgery at Palo Alto VA Medical Center.
Dr. Han diagnoses and treats a wide range of conditions, including brain tumors, pituitary tumors, spinal tumors, and degenerative spinal disorders. He is passionate about caring for underserved populations, as well as educating and mentoring the next generation of neurosurgeons.
Dr. Han’s academic and research interests include brain mapping, advancing diagnostic methods and treatments for brain tumors, and improving the quality of neurosurgical care. He has conducted several clinical trials to determine the safety and effectiveness of specific treatments for different tumors affecting the central nervous system.
Dr. Han has published over 100 peer-reviewed articles in prestigious journals, including Neurology, Neurosurgery, Neuro-Oncology, and the Journal of Neurosurgery. He also serves as a reviewer for many professional publications.
Dr. Han is a member of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, the Congress of Neurological Surgeons, and the Society for Neuro-Oncology. He serves as an executive committee member and abstract reviewer for annual conferences in several of these organizations. -
Summer Han
Associate Professor (Research) of Neurosurgery, of Medicine (Biomedical Informatics) and, by courtesy, of Epidemiology and Population Health
Current Research and Scholarly InterestsMy current research focuses on understanding the genetic and environmental etiology of complex disease and developing and evaluating efficient screening strategies based on etiological understanding. The areas of my research interests include statistical genetics, molecular epidemiology, cancer screening, health policy modeling, and risk prediction modeling. I have developed various statistical methods to analyze high-dimensional data to identify genetic and environmental risk factors and their interactions for complex disease.
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Ciara Harraher, MD
Clinical Professor, Neurosurgery
Current Research and Scholarly InterestsI am interested in medical education and I am an Associate in the Practice of Medicine and doctoring with CARE ( E4C) Program. I am also interested in surgical outcomes research and I am involved in clinical trials studying brain tumors and stroke. I have also presented internationally on issues related to improving diversity in Neurosurgery.
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Odette Harris, MD, MPH
Paralyzed Veterans of America Professor of Spinal Cord Injury Medicine
Current Research and Scholarly InterestsTraumatic brain injury with a focus on epidemiology and outcomes.
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Melanie Hayden Gephart
Professor of Neurosurgery and, by courtesy, of Neurology and Neurological Sciences
BioI am a brain tumor neurosurgeon, treating patients with malignant and benign tumors, including gliomas, brain metastases, meningiomas, and schwannomas. I direct the Stanford Brain Tumor Center and the Stanford Brain Metastasis Consortium, collaborative unions of physicians and scientists looking to improve our understanding and treatment of brain tumors. My laboratory seeks greater understanding of the mechanisms driving tumorigenesis and disease progression in malignant brain tumors. We study how rare cancer cell populations survive and migrate in the brain, inadvertently supported by native brain cells. We develop novel cerebrospinal fluid-based biomarkers to track brain cancer treatment response, relapse, and neurotoxicity. Our bedside-to-bench-to-bedside research model builds on a foundation of generously donated patient samples, where we test mechanisms of brain cancer growth, develop novel pre-clinical models that reliably recapitulate the human disease, and facilitate clinical trials of new treatments for patients with brain cancer.
www.GephartLab.com
https://stan.md/BrainMets
@HaydenGephartMD -
Jeremy J. Heit, MD, PhD
Associate Professor of Radiology (Neuroimaging and Neurointervention) and, by courtesy, of Neurosurgery
Current Research and Scholarly InterestsOur research seeks to advance our understanding of cerebrovascular disease and to develop new minimally invasive treatments for these diseases. We study ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke, cerebral aneurysms, delayed cerebral ischemia, cerebral arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), dural arteriovenous fistulae, and other vascular diseases of the brain. We use state-of-the-art neuroimaging techniques to non-invasively study these diseases, and we are developing future endovascular technologies to advance neurointerventional surgery.
www.heitlab.com -
Jaimie Henderson, MD
John and Jene Blume - Robert and Ruth Halperin Professor, Professor of Neurosurgery and, by courtesy, of Neurology and Neurological Sciences
Current Research and Scholarly InterestsMy research interests encompass several areas of stereotactic and functional neurosurgery, including frameless stereotactic approaches for therapy delivery to deep brain nuclei; cortical physiology and its relationship to normal and pathological movement; brain-computer interfaces; and the development of novel neuromodulatory techniques for the treatment of movement disorders, epilepsy, pain, and other neurological diseases.
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Yusuke Hori, MD
Clinical Instructor, Neurosurgery
BioDr. Hori received his MD from Sapporo Medical University, Japan, and during that time he served as a Medical Student Research Fellow in the Department of Pharmacology. He explored the functional role of the SIRT1 gene, a longevity-associated gene, and its association with various conditions such as muscular dystrophy. He also completed a Visiting Student Research Fellowship at the Health Sciences University of Hokkaido and participated in Human Genetics projects focusing on an association between the 27-bp deletion and 538G>A mutation in the ABCC11 Gene.
After graduating from medical school, Dr. Hori completed a neurosurgery residency at National Hospital Organization Okayama Medical Center in Japan. Subsequently, he completed a Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery Fellowship and then a Neurosurgical Oncology and Radiosurgery Fellowship at The Cleveland Clinic. He also completed an International Neurosurgery Fellowship at Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School. In 2022, he moved to Stanford University as a postdoctoral fellow, and under the supervision of Dr. Anca Pasca, he participated in brain organoid research focusing on hypoxic brain injuries.
Since July 2023, Dr. Hori has been working as a Clinical Instructor (Neurosurgical Oncology and Radiosurgery) in the Department of Neurosurgery at Stanford under the supervision of Dr. Steven D. Chang. His clinical interests include malignant brain and spine tumors in both adult and pediatric patients. His clinical research focuses on the application of minimally invasive treatments such as laser interstitial thermal therapy, focused ultrasound, and radiosurgery to treat various neurosurgical conditions. His current lab research aims to develop an organoid model for radiation-induced brain injuries and a high-throughput screening platform to identify novel therapeutic compounds, for which he received a Clinician Educator Grant from Stanford University Maternal and Child Health Research Institute. Outside of medicine, he enjoys playing music including guitar and drums. -
Serena Hu, MD
Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery and, by courtesy, of Neurosurgery
BioDr. Hu is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopaedic spine surgeon. She is professor and vice chair of the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and (by courtesy) Neurosurgery, and chief of the Division of Spine Surgery at Stanford University School of Medicine. Dr. Hu completed her orthopedic surgery residency at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York and her fellowship training in spine and scoliosis surgery at Rancho Los Amigos Rehabilitation Center in Downey, California.
Dr. Hu has extensive experience helping patients with a range of spinal conditions and injuries. She specializes in treating scoliosis (when the spine curves sideways), kyphosis (when the spine is more bent forward than normal) lumbar spine fractures, spondylolisthesis (when a vertebra moves out of place), disc degeneration, and spinal stenosis (spinal canal narrowing). Dr. Hu draws on her expertise to create a customized care plan for each of her patients.
Dr. Hu has been the principal investigator in more than a dozen clinical trials and studies. She has been awarded multiple research grants from the North American Spine Society, Scoliosis Research Society, and the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Her research interests include the effects of preoperative pain medication on surgical outcomes as well as decreasing the risk of complications after spine surgery. She has also studied and tested new technologies that make spine surgery safer and more effective.
She has published more than 145 articles in dozens of peer-reviewed journals, including Global Spine Journal, Journal of Spine Surgery, Spine, and Spine Deformity. She has written about a range of topics, including quality measures in spine surgery, spinal fusion techniques, spine tumor effects on spine stability and lumbar decompression for spinal stenosis. Additionally, Dr. Hu has written more than a dozen book chapters on spinal cord injuries, spine fractures, pediatric kyphosis, spondylolysis (vertebra fracture), and scoliosis.
Dr. Hu has reviewed articles for Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research, Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: A Comprehensive Review, and Spine. She has also served as associate editor for Spine Deformity and deputy editor for Global Spine Journal.
Having delivered hundreds of presentations, papers, and lectures, Dr. Hu is widely considered one of the world’s leading experts in spine surgery. She has been invited to lecture to her colleagues all over the United States and around the world, including in Hong Kong, Canada, Brazil, Australia, Argentina, and Greece.
Dr. Hu is a member of multiple professional organizations, including the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, American Orthopaedic Association, International Society for the Study of the Lumbar Spine, Orthopaedic Research Society, and Scoliosis Research Society. She is past president of the Scoliosis Research Society as well as of the American Orthopedic Association. -
John Huguenard
Professor of Neurology and Neurological Sciences (Neurology Research), of Neurosurgery (Adult Neurosurgery) and, by courtesy, of Molecular and Cellular Physiology
On Leave from 02/16/2025 To 02/15/2026Current Research and Scholarly InterestsWe are interested in the neuronal mechanisms that underlie synchronous oscillatory activity in the thalamus, cortex and the massively interconnected thalamocortical system. Such oscillations are related to cognitive processes, normal sleep activities and certain forms of epilepsy. Our approach is an analysis of the discrete components (cells, synapses, microcircuits) that make up thalamic and cortical circuits, and reconstitution of components into in silico computational networks.
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Peter H. Hwang, MD
Professor of Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery (OHNS) and, by courtesy, of Neurosurgery
Current Research and Scholarly Interests- Clinical outcomes in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis undergoing endoscopic sinus surgery
- Development of innovative medical devices for treatment of sinus disorders
- Founder of CORSICA, a national research registry for sinus cancer -
Michael Jensen, MD, PhD
Clinical Assistant Professor, Neurosurgery
BioDr. Michael Jensen is a neurosurgeon at Stanford Health Care. He also serves as a clinical assistant professor and director of endoscopic spine surgery in the Department of Neurosurgery, Division of Spine Surgery at Stanford University School of Medicine.
Dr. Jensen specializes in endoscopic and minimally invasive spine surgery for degenerative conditions, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and spine-related pain, with experience in more than 2,000 procedures throughout his career. As Director of Endoscopic Spine Surgery at Stanford, he focuses on motion-preserving techniques that shorten recovery and restore function. He also employs advanced imaging and meticulous surgical planning to make spinal fusion safer and promote lasting healing. Dr. Jensen’s care philosophy emphasizes precision, collaboration, and open communication—ensuring that every patient understands their options and feels confident in their care.
As a physician-scientist, Dr. Jensen focuses his research on improving the quality, efficiency, and effectiveness of spine care. He has studied how cost-sharing policies, treatment timing, and prescribing patterns affect outcomes for patients with neck and back pain. He has also explored the use of machine learning and predictive modeling to guide clinical decision-making in neurosurgery. Currently, Dr. Jensen works with the Endoscopic Spine Research Group to improve patient pain control and functional recovery after endoscopic spine surgery.
Dr. Jensen has presented his work at national meetings, including those of the Congress of Neurological Surgeons and the Society of Lateral Access Surgery. He has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications in journals such as The Spine Journal, JAMA Network Open, and World Neurosurgery. His research spans clinical care, health economics, and translational science, reflecting his commitment to advancing neurosurgical practice and improving patient outcomes.
Dr. Jensen is a member of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons. -
Julia Kaltschmidt
Associate Professor of Neurosurgery
Current Research and Scholarly InterestsThe lab’s primary research interest is to understand how specific neuronal circuits are established. We use mouse genetics, combinatorial immunochemical labeling and high-resolution laser scanning microscopy to identify, manipulate, and quantitatively analyze synaptic contacts within the complex neuronal milieu of the spinal cord and the enteric nervous system.
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Spyros Karadimas, MD, PhD
Assistant Professor of Neurosurgery
BioDr. Spyridon Karadimas is a board-certified, fellowship-trained cerebrovascular neurosurgeon and physician-scientist with Stanford Health Care. He is also an assistant professor in the Department of Neurosurgery at Stanford University School of Medicine.
Dr. Karadimas offers advanced, personalized treatment for complex vascular disorders of the brain, neck, and spine in both adults and children. His expertise spans brain aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations, cavernous malformations, arteriovenous fistulas, Moyamoya disease, stroke, and carotid artery disease. Dr. Karadimas is a rare combination of surgeon, scientist, and innovator dedicated to advancing patient care and shaping the future of cerebrovascular neurosurgery.
Dr. Karadimas directs a basic and translational research program focused on the neural circuits of motor control and stroke recovery. His laboratory integrates systems neuroscience, in vivo imaging, electrophysiology, and brain-computer interface development to uncover the principles of neuroplasticity, or how the brain adapts to change. This knowledge allows him to create new ways to help people move again after a brain injury.
Dr. Karadimas has published his research as first author in peer-reviewed journals such as Nature, Nature Neuroscience and Science Translational Medicine. His work has received editorial highlight at Nature Reviews Neuroscience. He has presented to his peers at international, national, and regional meetings, including those of the American Academy of Neurological Surgery, American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS), European Association of Neurosurgical Societies, and World Federation of Skull Base Societies.
Dr. Karadimas is a fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of Canada and American Association of Neurological Surgeons as well as member of the Congress of Neurological Surgeons, and the North American Skull Base Society. -
Laurence Katznelson, MD
Professor of Neurosurgery, Emeritus
Current Research and Scholarly InterestsDr. Katznelson is an internationally known neuroendocrinologist and clinical researcher, with research expertise in the diagnosis and management of hypopituitarism, the effects of hormones on neurocognitive function, and the development of therapeutics for acromegaly and Cushings syndrome, and neuroendocrine tumors. Dr. Katznelson is the medical director of the multidisciplinary Stanford Pituitary Center, a program geared for patient management, clinical research and patient education
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Prashanth Krishnamohan, MD
Clinical Associate Professor, Adult Neurology
Clinical Associate Professor (By courtesy), NeurosurgeryBioDr. Krishnamohan is a board-certified, fellowship-trained neurologist. He is a clinical assistant professor of neurology and neurological sciences and, by courtesy, of neurosurgery at Stanford University School of Medicine. In addition, he is Medical Director of the Neurosciences Service Line at Stanford Health Care – ValleyCare and is Medical Director of its Stroke program.
Dr. Krishnamohan excels in the diagnosis and treatment of neurological conditions. His clinical interests include the management of stroke, epilepsy, concussion, and coma. With every patient, his goal is to provide personalized care designed to optimize neurological function for the best possible clinical outcome and quality of life.
He has published extensively on topics including innovations in stroke care quality management and measurement, rapid bedside evaluation of seizures in the ICU, and EEG metrics in comatose cardiac arrest patients. Articles by Dr. Krishnamohan have appeared in Neuroanesthesia and Neurocritical Care, Quality Management in Healthcare, Current Infectious Disease Reports, and other journals. He has presented his research findings at the annual meetings of the Neurocritical Care Society and American Academy of Neurology.
He has authored chapters on post-concussive syndrome, stroke, and other conditions for the guidebook Ferri’s Clinical Advisor. In addition, he is a reviewer for the Journal of Neuroscience Nursing, Neurohospitalist, and the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Psychiatry.
Dr. Krishnamohan has won recognition from Stanford Health Care, the Institute for Healthcare Improvement Open School, the University of Kentucky College of Medicine, and PSG Institute of Medical Sciences and Research – the latter two his alma maters.
Dr. Krishnamohan is a member of the Neurocritical Care Society, American Academy of Neurology, and American Heart Association/American Stroke Association. He volunteers as a community health educator with numerous organizations. -
Kathryn Kvam
Clinical Associate Professor, Adult Neurology
Clinical Associate Professor (By courtesy), NeurosurgeryCurrent Research and Scholarly InterestsDr. Kvam's research focuses on 1) how to measure quality of care for patients with neurologic disease, 2) the value and impact of neurohospitalist models of care on patient outcomes and trainee education and 3) outcomes in rare diseases like autoimmune encephalitis.
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Mable Lam
Instructor, Neurosurgery
Current Research and Scholarly InterestsMyelin is required for rapid nerve signaling by insulating axons to accelerate action potential propagation. Myelin-forming cells of the central nervous system, called oligodendrocytes, orchestrate one of the most complex morphological transformations in neurobiology. Each oligodendrocyte can extend multiple processes that selectively wrap axons in tens to hundreds of spiraling membrane layers, forming myelin sheaths that vary in thickness and length. Furthermore, oligodendrocytes can respond to neural activity by adding new sheaths or by changing the geometry of pre-existing sheaths to tune neural circuitry, a process known as adaptive myelination.
What are the membrane trafficking mechanisms that drive adaptive myelination in oligodendrocytes?
How can these mechanisms be stimulated to promote myelin regeneration in disease?
By using transgenic mouse models and primary oligodendrocytes, we have found that SNARE-mediated exocytosis drives membrane addition in myelin sheaths. Current research is focused on how these pathways in oligodendrocytes may be regulated during adaptive myelination. -
Maarten Lansberg, MD, PhD
Professor of Neurology and Neurological Sciences (Adult Neurology) and, by courtesy, of Neurosurgery
Current Research and Scholarly InterestsMy research involves the design and conduct of clinical trials to discover new treatments for patients who have suffered a stroke. These trials span treatment of acute stroke, stroke recovery, and stroke prevention. My research in acute stroke is primarily focused on the use of advanced neuroimaging methods (CT and MRI) to select patients who are most likely to benefit from therapies aimed at restoring blood flow to the brain in patients who have suffered a stroke.
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Jin Hyung Lee
Associate Professor of Neurology and Neurological Sciences (Neurology Research), of Neurosurgery and of Bioengineering and, by courtesy, of Electrical Engineering
Current Research and Scholarly InterestsIn vivo visualization and control of neural circuits
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Michael Leong
Clinical Professor, Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine
Clinical Professor (By courtesy), NeurosurgeryCurrent Research and Scholarly Interests- Intrathecal / Intraspinal Analgesics
- Ziconotide (Prialt)
- Resiniferatoxin
- Industry-supported clinical trials -
Joshua Levin, MD
Clinical Associate Professor, Orthopaedic Surgery
Clinical Associate Professor, NeurosurgeryBioDr. Levin completed a residency in physical medicine and rehabilitation at the University of Michigan in 2007, and a pain medicine fellowship at the Virginia Commonwealth University in 2008. Currently, he is a member of both the departments of orthopedic surgery and neurosurgery at Stanford University, where he also is the director of the PM&R residency program and the associate director of the interventional spine and musculoskeletal medicine fellowship.
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Gordon Li, MD
Professor of Neurosurgery and, by courtesy, of Neurology and Neurological Sciences and of Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery (OHNS)
Current Research and Scholarly Interests1.) My laboratory studies the biology of brain tumors with the goal of developing novel therapeutics for the treatment of malignant brain tumors and translating that research into clinical trials.
2.) My clinical interests include improving surgical techniques for brain tumor surgery, immunotherapy for the treatment of glioblastoma, and novel uses for stereotactic radiosurgery. -
Michael Lim, M.D.
Stanford Medicine Endowed Chair of the Department of Neurosurgery, Professor of Neurosurgery and, by courtesy, of Radiation Oncology, of Medicine, of Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery (OHNS) and of Neurology and Neurological Sciences
BioDr. Lim is the Chair of the Department of Neurosurgery and a board-certified neurosurgeon specializing in brain tumors and trigeminal neuralgia.
Dr. Lim’s clinical interests include the treatment of benign and malignant brain tumors, with special interest in gliomas, meningiomas, metastatic tumors, and skull base tumors. Dr. Lim also specializes in surgical treatments for trigeminal neuralgia. During his time at Johns Hopkins, Dr. Lim built one of the largest brain tumor and trigeminal neuralgia practices and utilized the most advanced surgical technologies and techniques for his patients. As a passionate voice for patient experience, he has been recognized by his peers and patients for his integrity and compassionate care, including a Service Excellence Award from HealthNetwork Foundation.
As a mentor, he has garnered numerous teaching awards, including being honored as an outstanding teacher by Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. He is actively involved in shaping education for neurosurgery and oncology across the United States and around the world. He is the recipient of the prestigious 2023 Abhijit Guha Award in Neuro-Oncology.
Dr. Lim’s research interests focus on harnessing the immune system to fight cancer. His laboratory focuses on understanding mechanisms of immune evasion by cancer cells. He has successfully translated his findings from the laboratory to the clinics and has conducted and led several large national immunotherapy clinical trials for brain tumors.
Dr. Lim’s bibliography contains well over 300 articles on topics such as immunotherapy for glioblastoma, long-term survival of glioma patients treated with stereotactic radiation, and treatment of neuropathic pain. His work has appeared in Science Translational Medicine, Clinical Cancer Research, Lancet Oncology, Nature Immunology, and many more publications. He also has written 20 book chapters and monographs.
Dr. Lim is a world leader in immunotherapy for brain tumors. In addition to being invited world-wide to give lectures and seminars, he has given platform presentations on the topics of immunotherapy for brain tumors, neurosurgical techniques and management of brain tumors at the American Society of Clinical Oncologists, American Academy of Neurological Surgeons, Radiological Society of North America, Annual Symposium on Brain and Spine Metastases, Congress of Neurological Surgeons, and other meetings. In addition, he has served as platform chairman of the CNS session at the American Society for Clinical Oncology conference.
Dr. Lim is a member of the American Society for Clinical Oncology, Congress of Neurological Surgeons, American Association of Neurological Surgeons, and Society for Neuro-Oncology. Dr. Lim served as the program co-chair of the Society for Neuro-Oncology and CNS section of the American Society for Clinical Oncology. He also served on many executive committees, including the Executive Committee for the Joint Tumor Section of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons and Congress of Neurological Surgeons.
Trigeminal neuralgia treatment: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-n8nvwkwZik
Trigeminal neuralgia patient stories: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kClePRPYlQs&t=1s -
Frank M. Longo, MD, PhD
George E. and Lucy Becker Professor of Medicine and Professor, by courtesy, of Neurosurgery
Current Research and Scholarly InterestsClinical interests include Alzheimer's disease and Huntington's disease and the development of effective therapeutics for these disorders. Laboratory interests encompass the elucidation of signaling mechanisms relevant to neurodegenerative disorders and the development of novel small molecule approaches for the treatment of neurodegenerative and other neurological disorders.
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Jaime Lopez, MD
Professor of Neurology and Neurological Sciences (Adult Neurology) and, by courtesy, of Neurosurgery
Current Research and Scholarly InterestsMy clinical interests are in the areas of Intraoperative Neurophysiologic Monitoring (IOM), clinical neurophysiology, electromyopgraphy and in the use of botulinum toxins in the treatment of neurologic disorders. Our IOM groups research is in the development of new and innovative techniques for monitoring the nervous system during surgical and endovascular procedures and how these alter surgical management and patient outcomes. I am also active in formulating national IOM practice guidelines.
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Irene L. Llorente
Assistant Professor of Neurosurgery
BioOriginally from Spain, Irene L. Llorente joined the Neurosurgery Department at Stanford University in 2022. Following her undergraduate degree in Molecular Biology at the University of Leon in Spain, Dr. Llorente completed an MS in Molecular Biology and Biomedicine and a Ph.D. in Neuroscience between the Universities of Leon (Spain) and Florence (Italy). She conducted a postdoctoral fellowship in the Neurology Department at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA where she also started her independent career as a Research Assistant Professor. Her research interests are largely directed toward understanding the biology of white matter repair in central nervous system disorders. She is particularly interested in leveraging the current technologies emerging in the stem cell field to develop more efficient and effective stem cell-based therapies for stroke, spinal cord injury, Traumatic brain injury, and vascular dementia patients.
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Zhonglin Lyu
Instructor, Neurosurgery
BioDr. Lyu is an instructor at the Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine. He obtained his PhD at Soochow University, China, where he gained training in designing biomaterials to modulate stem cell behaviors and led multidisciplinary research under the advice of Prof. Hong Chen. During his PhD, he worked as a visiting student researcher at Canary Center for Early Cancer Detection at Stanford University School of Medicine where he gained training in microfluidics and cancer metastasis. Dr. Lyu carried out his postdoctoral research under the guidance of Prof. Jon Park and Wonjae Lee at the Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University School of Medicine. He developed an in vitro microphysiological model of ischaemic stroke and used it as a platform to systematically evaluate the restorative potential of stem cell therapy.
As an instructor, Dr. Lyu's main research interest is to develop in vitro tissue/organ models to mimic human diseases including neurological diseases and cancer metastases. The goal is to use these models to understand disease mechanisms, to evaluate the safety and efficacy of existing drugs, and to look for new therapeutic targets. -
Kelly Mahaney
Assistant Professor of Neurosurgery
BioDr. Mahaney is a Pediatric Neurosurgeon with clinical interest in Hydrocephalus, Craniovertebral Junction abnormalities, Spasticity, Spinal dysraphism and Myelomeningocele, Central Nervous System tumors, and Pediatric Epilepsy surgery. She completed residency training at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics and subspecialty Pediatric Neurosurgery training at The Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto and the Barrow Neurologic Institute at Phoenix Children's Hospital. She is interested in advancing Neuro-endoscopic techniques in Pediatric Neurosurgical practice. Dr. Mahaney's research focuses on delineating the role of iron in the development of post-hemorrhagic hydrocephalus.
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Cormac Maher, MD, FAANS, FAAP, FACS
Botha Chan Endowed Professor
BioDr. Maher is a board-certified, fellowship-trained neurosurgeon with Stanford Health Care and is chief of neurosurgery at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital Stanford. He is also the Botha Chan Endowed Professor in the Department of Neurosurgery, Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery at Stanford University School of Medicine.
Dr. Maher specializes in treating children who have neurological disorders — conditions of the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. In his adult practice, he offers particular expertise in treating Chiari malformation, which involves a portion of the brain pushing down into the spinal canal, and tethered spinal cord. Dr. Maher has served on many national organization committees for research and training in neurosurgery.
Dr. Maher has published more than 190 articles in peer-reviewed journals, including Journal of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgery, and Journal of Neurosurgery: Pediatrics. He has also served on the editorial boards for publications and organizations including the Journal of Neurosurgery Publishing Group. He has performed ad hoc review for many other journals and grant review for organizations including the American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS).
Dr. Maher has delivered hundreds of presentations at symposiums and conferences for national and international audiences. He is also a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics, AANS, and American College of Surgeons. -
Paul Salomon Mischel
Fortinet Founders Professor and Professor, by courtesy, of Neurosurgery
Current Research and Scholarly InterestsMy research bridges cancer genetics, signal transduction and cellular metabolism as we aim to understand the molecular mechanisms that drive cancer development, progression, and drug resistance. We have made a series of discoveries that have identified a central role for ecDNA (extrachromosomal DNA) in cancer development, progression, accelerated tumor evolution and drug resistance.
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Michelle Monje
Milan Gambhir Professor of Pediatric Neuro-Oncology and Professor, by courtesy, of Neurosurgery, of Pediatrics, of Pathology and of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences
Current Research and Scholarly InterestsThe Monje Lab studies the molecular and cellular mechanisms of postnatal neurodevelopment. This includes microenvironmental influences on neural precursor cell fate choice in normal neurodevelopment and in disease states.
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Seema Nagpal, MD
Clinical Professor, Adult Neurology
Clinical Professor (By courtesy), NeurosurgeryCurrent Research and Scholarly InterestsI'm a board certified neuro-oncologist who treats both primary brain tumors as well as metastatic disease to the brain and nervous system. My research concentrates on clinical trials for patients with late-stage central nervous system cancer. I have a special interest in leptomeningeal disease, a devastating complication of lung and breast cancers. I collaborate with Stanford scientists to detect this disease earlier, and with our breast and lung oncologists to improve outcomes for patients.
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Jayakar V. Nayak, MD, PhD
Associate Professor of Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery (OHNS) and, by courtesy, of Neurosurgery
On Partial Leave from 09/16/2025 To 04/30/2026Current Research and Scholarly InterestsUpper Airway Stem Cell Biology, Fate, and Repair/Regeneration of the Airway Epithelium to treat Upper and Lower Airway Disorders
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Paul Nuyujukian
Assistant Professor of Bioengineering and of Neurosurgery and, by courtesy, of Electrical Engineering
Current Research and Scholarly InterestsOur group explores neuroengineering and its application to both basic and clinical neuroscience. Our goal is to develop brain-machine interfaces as a platform technology for a variety of brain-related medical conditions including stroke and epilepsy.
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Thomas Osborne, MD
Adjunct Clinical Professor, Neurosurgery
BioThomas Osborne, MD is board certified in Diagnostic Imaging and Neuroradiology.
He has devoted his professional career to accelerating advancements at the intersection of healthcare, technology, and business. He is driven to solve challenges for broad positive impact and shared success.
Dr. Osborne’s academic publications cover a diversity of topics such as cancer, infectious disease, neurologic disorders, surgery, pain and anxiety, climate health, falls, elder care, determinants of health, telehealth, diagnostics, predictive analytics, drug repurposing, cost savings, employee morale, strategy, efficiencies, health risk, safety, and the integration of advanced technologies into clinical practice.
Dr. Osborne received his medical degree from Dartmouth Medical School and completed his clinical residency and fellowship at Harvard hospitals. He has been an advisor and mentor to other healthcare leaders for most of his career. He is also the Chief Medical Officer at Microsoft, Federal Civilian.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomosbornemd/
Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?hl=en&user=2v4Q8DoAAAAJ -
Theo Palmer
Professor of Neurosurgery, Emeritus
Current Research and Scholarly InterestsMembers of the Palmer Lab study the biology of neural stem cells in brain development and in the adult. Our primary goal is to understand how genes and environment synergize in influencing stem cell behavior during development and how mild genetic or environmental risk factors for disease may synergize in their detrimental effects on brain development or in the risk of neuronal loss in age-related degenerative disease.
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David J. Park, MD, PhD, FCNS
Clinical Assistant Professor, Neurosurgery
Current Research and Scholarly InterestsThe goal of our Laboratory is to improve patients’ care and outcomes by analyzing clinical data from thousands of patients treated at our institution. Our current primary areas of interest are benign tumors, brain and spine metastases, and neurogenetic disorders.
Our lab is led by Dr. Steven D. Chang and Dr. David J. Park and proudly hosts talented young clinical scientists from around the world.
Link: https://med.stanford.edu/neurosurgery/research/NeuroOncLab.html -
Jon Park, MD, FRCSC
Saunders Family Professor
Current Research and Scholarly InterestsNon-fusion dynamic spinal stabilization, artificial disc technologies, and regenerative spinal technologies.
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Sonia Partap
Clinical Professor, Pediatric Neurology
Clinical Professor (By courtesy), Neurosurgery
Clinical Professor, PediatricsCurrent Research and Scholarly InterestsMy research interests involve the epidemiology, treatment and diagnosis of pediatric and young adult brain tumors. I am also interested in long-term neurologic effects and designing clinical trials to treat brain and spinal cord tumors.
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Josef Parvizi, MD, PhD
Professor of Neurology and Neurological Sciences (Adult Neurology) and, by courtesy, of Neurosurgery
BioDr. Parvizi completed his medical internship at Mayo Clinic, neurology training at Harvard, and subspecialty training in clinical neurophysiology and epilepsy at UCLA before joining the Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences at Stanford in 2007. Dr. Parvizi directs the Stanford Program for Medication Resistant Epilepsies and specializes in surgical treatments of intractable focal epilepsies. Dr. Parvizi is the principal investigator in the Laboratory of Behavioral and Cognitive Neuroscience, where he leads a team of investigators to study the human brain. http://med.stanford.edu/parvizi-lab.html.
Epilepsy patient story: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HXy-gXg0t94&t=3s
