Nathan P. Staff

Nathan P. Staff, M.D., Ph.D., is a Professor of Neurology at Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and serves as a Consultant and Chair of Neurology Research in the Department of Neurology at Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota. His work bridges laboratory research and clinical trials, focusing on peripheral nervous system disorders.

• Education:
• Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Northwestern University
• M.D., Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
• B.Sc. in Biology, University of Minnesota
• Residencies and Fellowships in Neurology and Neuromuscular Disorders at Mayo Clinic

Dr. Staff’s research centers on the pathogenesis and treatment of peripheral neuropathies. His primary focus areas include:

• Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy (CIPN): Investigating molecular mechanisms of neurotoxicity using in vitro models and developing protective strategies.
• Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS): Leading clinical trials using autologous adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells delivered intrathecally to slow disease progression.
• Post-Surgical Inflammatory Neuropathies: Demonstrating immune-mediated mechanisms in nerve injuries following surgery and exploring immunomodulatory treatments.

His recent publications span from 2016 to 2025, showing sustained research activity in neurotoxicity, regenerative therapies, and clinical neurology. Articles highlight collaborations in stem cell therapy, iPSC models, and autoimmune neuropathies. Trends indicate a strong emphasis on translational neuroscience, with a growing focus on molecular diagnostics and personalized treatment approaches.

Scientific Awards:

• No specific awards listed in the provided text.

Dr. Staff leads multiple federally funded research projects, including grants from the National Cancer Institute and the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. He mentors researchers and collaborates across disciplines, particularly in regenerative medicine and neuroimmunology. He is actively involved in the Mayo Clinic NeuroNEXT Clinical Research Site and leads initiatives in neurotherapeutics. His laboratory work integrates human iPSC models, organoid cultures, and clinical trial design, positioning him at the forefront of translational neurology.

Dr. Staff is affiliated with key research centers including the Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center and the Center for Regenerative Biotherapeutics. His team focuses on discovery and translation of novel therapies for debilitating neurological conditions.