Terry C. Burns

Terry C. Burns, M.D., Ph.D., is a Professor of Neuroscience and Neurosurgery at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, where he serves as a Consultant in the Department of Neurologic Surgery. His work bridges clinical neurosurgery and translational research, focusing on improving outcomes for patients with brain tumors and neurological injuries.

Education:

• Ph.D., University of Minnesota – Stem cells and ischemic brain injury
• M.D., University of Minnesota
• Residency, Neurological Surgery, Stanford Hospitals and Clinics
• Post-doctoral Research Fellowship, Stanford University – Neural stem cell niche, bioinformatics
• Visiting Student Researcher, Karolinska Institute, Sweden
• B.S., Biology and Biochemistry, Summa Cum Laude, Columbia Union College

Research Interests: Dr. Burns leads a multidisciplinary research program in regenerative neurosurgery and neuro-oncology. His lab investigates radiation-induced brain injury, microglial biology, and cell-based regenerative therapies to restore cognitive function and improve quality of life. He emphasizes clinical translation, leveraging bioinformatics and patient-derived models to develop therapies that bridge the gap between preclinical success and human trials.

Publication Trends: His recent publications (2024–2025) reflect a strong focus on glioma biology, cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers, deep learning in neuroimaging, and novel therapeutic frameworks. Key themes include tumor heterogeneity, liquid biopsies, immunotherapy, and the role of senescence in recurrence. His work appears in top journals such as Neuro-Oncology, The Lancet Oncology, and Nature Communications.

Scientific Awards:

• NCI MERIT Award (R37), 2023
• Translational Science Award, Regenerative Medicine Minnesota, 2020–2022
• Newman Award, San Francisco Neurological Society, 2015
• Multiple best presentation and resident awards (2011–2014)

Grants and Advising: Dr. Burns is Principal Investigator on multiple NIH and CDMRP-funded projects, including studies on IDH-mutant gliomas and radiation-induced senescence. He mentors trainees and collaborates extensively through the Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center and national consortia. His lab contributes to clinical trials and develops regenerative strategies for brain tumor patients.

Labs and Teams: He leads the Regenerative Neurosurgery and Neuro-Oncology research team at Mayo Clinic, collaborating with experts in neuro-oncology, radiology, immunology, and bioengineering. His work is integrated within the Center for Regenerative Biotherapeutics and the Women's Health Research Center.