Briana A. Santo
Harvey Cushing described craniopharyngiomas as “the most formidable of intracranial tumors,” which, because of their proximity to critical neurovascular structures, cause significant morbidity. Despite surgical and therapeutic advancements, management of craniopharyngiomas remains challenging. Recurrence occurs in 20%–50% of patients, underscoring the need for reliable predictors of tumor subtypes and recurrence risk. To address these challenges, we developed machine learning models that use clinically interpretable radiomic features extracted from preoperative MRI to predict craniopharyngioma subtypes and forecast tumor recurrence. Such noninvasive, imaging-based approaches may help guide individualized treatment planning and improve outcomes for patients with these complex tumors. This work was completed under the mentorship of Dr. Debraj Mukherjee in the Department of Neurosurgery
Questions & Answers
Why did you choose Johns Hopkins for your work?
Johns Hopkins has outstanding mentors and a long-standing tradition of training and supporting physician-scientists, which makes it an ideal environment for me to learn and grow.
What does receiving this award mean to you personally and professionally? Do you have any connection with the particular award you received?
Receiving this award is an honor, and I look forward to contributing to the next chapter of this project during my upcoming research year.
What contributed to your project’s success? (Special skills, interests, opportunities, guidance, etc.)
Invaluable mentorship and teamwork in our lab were central to the success of this project.
What thoughts do you have about Young Investigators’ Day itself, as a celebration of the roles students and fellows play in research at Johns Hopkins?
Biomedical science is advancing rapidly, and as a trainee, it can be challenging to develop essential skills, stay current with emerging technologies, and find a research focus. Young Investigators’ Day is providing the encouragement early-stage researchers need, helping them feel supported and confident that they are on the right path and making meaningful progress in their chosen field.
What has been your best/most memorable experience while at Johns Hopkins?
One of my most memorable experiences in medical school so far was our White Coat Ceremony at the end of first year. Hearing about everyone’s paths to medicine, celebrating with classmates, faculty and families, and collectively acknowledging the academic journey we share captured a truly special sense of community.
What are your plans over the next year or so? Graduating, looking for faculty positions, etc.?
Starting this summer, I will be taking a dedicated research year to further contribute to ongoing work in our lab on craniopharyngioma as well as other computational projects aimed at improving long-term postoperative outcomes for neurosurgical patients.
Tell me something interesting about yourself that makes you unique. Do you have any special hobbies, interests or life experiences?
I like to stay on the move — running in the summer, snowboarding in the winter and taking my energetic Pomsky, King, on walks or to the dog park. These activities help me recharge outside of school and research.