Santosh Kesari, MD, PhD, FANA, NBPAS

Dr. Santosh Kesari is a world-renowned, board-certified neuro-oncologist and neurologist whose pioneering research and clinical leadership continue to transform the treatment landscape for aggressive brain cancers. As an internationally recognized clinical trialist, key opinion leader, and biotech founder, Dr. Kesari brings a wealth of translational medicine expertise to the forefront of neuro-oncology. His extensive clinical and laboratory research focuses deeply on the molecular and biological drivers of neurological malignancies, with a particular emphasis on cancer stem cells, neuro-immunology, and their roles in tumor formation and profound therapeutic resistance.

Throughout his distinguished career, which includes prominent past leadership roles at leading research and cancer institutes across the United States, Dr. Kesari has leveraged his expertise across immunotherapy, chemotherapy, radiation, and novel medical devices to develop targeted, precision therapeutic strategies for patients with intractable brain tumors. An accomplished inventor and prolific scholar, he has authored over 500 scientific publications and holds numerous patents that have significantly advanced the field. Beyond his clinical and academic achievements, Dr. Kesari is a seasoned life sciences entrepreneur, bringing vital industry experience as a founder and scientific advisor to multiple oncology-focused biotechnology companies. He earned his MD and a PhD in molecular biology from the University of Pennsylvania, equipping him with a dual perspective that seamlessly connects rigorous bench science with clinical application.

As the scientific Co-Founder of Curtana Pharmaceuticals and Chair of the company’s Scientific Advisory Board, Dr. Kesari provides unparalleled clinical insight and strategic direction. His deep understanding of the molecular underpinnings of glioblastoma and his vast experience in clinical trial design and novel drug delivery mechanisms are indispensable to Curtana’s mission. Dr. Kesari’s visionary guidance ensures that Curtana’s OLIG2 inhibitor program is optimized to overcome the significant challenges of treating treatment-resistant brain tumors, ultimately accelerating the delivery of life-saving interventions to the clinic.