Neurosurgery Research
Our Research Mission
Our mission is to conduct innovative research that:
- advances the science of neurotrauma and neurologic disease
- has a positive translational impact on clinical care
- fosters the development of scientists
- improves the health of our community
Our Research Vision
Our vision is to be a world-class center for neurotrauma research that positively impacts the lives of people affected by neurologic injury and disease.
Center for Neurotrauma Research
The Center for Neurotrauma Research seeks to advance the science of neurological trauma and related diseases, enhance the translation of brain and spinal trauma research into clinical care innovations, foster the professional development of future scientists, and improve the health of communities throughout the region and state. Within MCW, the CNTR functions as a collaborative hub for neurotrauma research and will create a synergistic collaboration with other MCW Centers such as the Comprehensive Injury Center, Neuroscience Research Center and the Center for Imaging Research.
MCW's Center for Neurotrauma Research is co-directed by Shekar Kurpad, MD, PhD, Sanford J. Larson Professor and Chair of Neurosurgery; and Michael McCrea, PhD, Professor of Neurosurgery, Eminent Scholar, Vice Chair of Research and Director of Brain Injury Research at the Medical College of Wisconsin.
Neurosurgery Research Programs
Research from the Department of Neurosurgery includes multimodal investigations into the generation and treatment of brain injury, biomechanics and spinal cord injury.

Brain Injury Research
Led by Dr. Michael McCrea, the Brain Injury Research Program includes investigations into acute and chronic effects of traumatic brain injury.
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Biomechanics Research
Neurosurgery Biomechanics research is carried out at the ZVAMC Labs and includes investigations into the biomechanics of trauma and biomechanics of the spine.
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Spinal Cord Injury Research
Investigations into Spinal Cord Injury at ZVAMC Labs seek to improve the recovery and quality of life for patients affected by acute and chronic SCI.
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