Binder Lab
Zev Binder, MD, PhD
Research Assistant Professor, Department of Neurosurgery
Dr. Binder is a Research Assistant Professor, working with Dr. O'Rourke since 2015. He received a B.S. degree in Biochemistry from the University of California at Davis, an M.D. from Pennsylvania State University, and a Ph.D. in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering from Johns Hopkins University. Dr. Binder's research focuses on translational GBM research with an emphasis on immuno-oncology. He also works on GBM model development, characterization, and incorporation into the ongoing research. In his spare time, Dr. Binder enjoys playing with his two young daughters and making anything involving chocolate.
Research Interest
My primary research focus is as a translational neuro-oncology scientist. I combine in vitro and in vivo models to explore new approaches to glioblastoma (GBM) therapy. I also explore the limitations of the models in use and how best to minimize them. Following medical school, I started a post-doctoral fellowship focused on glioma stem cells and their identifying characteristics. While investigating potential stem cell-associated proteins, I established a dozen glioma stem cell lines (Binder et al, PLoS ONE 2016; Siu et al, J Neurosurg 2012). Working with primary cultures and the subsequent characterization of those cultures gave me an in-depth understanding of the advantages and limitations of in vitro and in vivo models for GBMs. I also gained an appreciation for the multi-disciplinary approach to treating GBMs. I had the opportunity to work closely with neurosurgeons, neuro-oncologists, neuroradiologists, and neuropathologists. This exposure helped me to develop connections that I still use currently. It also showed me the multiple facets of GBMs and the combinatorial research approach that is essential for making successful contributions to the clinical treatment of GBMs.