Ganesh Rao

Ganesh Rao, M.D. is the Marc J. Shapiro Professor and Chair of the Department of Neurosurgery at Baylor College of Medicine. A board-certified neurosurgeon specializing in neurosurgical oncology, he has pioneered research on glioma biology, focusing on malignant progression, tumor microenvironment dynamics, and novel immunotherapeutic strategies. His clinical expertise includes treating brain and spine tumors using advanced techniques like stereotactic navigation, awake surgery, endoscopy, and laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT).

• Advanced Training: MD Anderson Cancer Center (2006), University of Utah (2005)
• M.D.: University of Arizona College of Medicine (1998)

Research Focus:
The Rao Lab investigates glioma progression through projects like Modeling Malignant Progression and Microglia-T Cell Interactions. His work spans basic science (e.g., identifying genetic drivers of glioma) and clinical research (e.g., NIH-funded trials on LITT and immunotherapy).

Scientific Contributions:
As a leader in neuro-oncology, Rao has published 250+ articles in top journals (Nature, JCI, Cancer Cell). His accolades include serving as President of the Congress of Neurological Surgeons (2018-2019) and securing continuous NIH funding for glioma research.

Collaborative Impact:
His team explores multidisciplinary approaches to brain tumors, integrating genomics, immunology, and surgical innovation. Current projects address STAT3 inhibition, neuronal-glioma interactions, and precision immunotherapy strategies.