Paul D. Brown MD

Dr. Paul D. Brown is a board-certified radiation oncologist and Professor of Radiation Oncology at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. He specializes in the treatment of primary and metastatic brain and spinal tumors, with expertise in stereotactic radiosurgery, Gamma Knife radiosurgery, proton therapy, intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), and advanced radiation treatment techniques for central nervous system malignancies. His clinical focus is on maximizing tumor control while preserving cognitive function and quality of life for patients with brain tumors.

Dr. Brown earned his Doctor of Medicine from the University of North Dakota School of Medicine after completing undergraduate studies in zoology and chemistry at North Dakota State University. He completed a preliminary internal medicine internship followed by a residency in radiation oncology at Mayo Clinic, where he has remained as a faculty member. He is certified by the American Board of Radiology in Radiation Oncology.

An internationally recognized physician-scientist, Dr. Brown leads research focused on improving outcomes for patients with brain tumors through innovative radiation therapy approaches. His work includes proton radiotherapy, stereotactic radiosurgery, hippocampal-sparing radiation techniques, and strategies to reduce radiation-associated neurocognitive complications. His research has also explored novel interventions, including neuroprotective therapies, to preserve memory and cognitive function following cranial irradiation.

Dr. Brown has authored hundreds of peer-reviewed scientific publications and has served as principal investigator and leader for numerous national and international clinical trials in neuro-oncology. His research has significantly influenced modern treatment standards for brain metastases and gliomas and continues to advance evidence-based care in radiation oncology.

Throughout his career, Dr. Brown has received numerous honors recognizing his excellence in clinical care, research, teaching, and leadership, including the 2025 Mayo Clinic Distinguished Clinician Award, the Mayo Clinic Experience Top Performer Award, the Mayo Clinic Distinguished Clinician Researcher Award, the President's Recognition for Faculty Excellence Award, and the American Medical Association Women's Physician Section Inspirational Physician Award. He also holds leadership roles within Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology, NRG Oncology, and several national neuro-oncology organizations, contributing to the advancement of multidisciplinary cancer care and clinical research.