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Dr. Sarah Leary Joins the Children's Brain Tumor Network as Co-Chair

In a significant development within the pediatric oncology community, Dr. Sarah Leary has been appointed as the Co-Chair of the Children's Brain Tumor Network (CBTN) Executive Board, a role crucial for enhancing research and initiative within the realm of children's brain tumors. Starting her tenure on September 22, 2026, Dr. Leary will partner with Brian Rood, MD, as they steer the network towards impactful scientific advancements and broader institutional collaborations.

Leadership Evolution

Dr. Leary's appointment follows the completion of Sabine Mueller, MD, PhD’s term, marking a strategic transition that not only preserves continuity but also injects fresh perspectives into the leadership dynamics of CBTN. This staggered leadership approach is designed to cultivate ongoing evolution within the board as it reacts to emerging challenges and opportunities in pediatric brain tumor research.

Having an established career as a pediatric neuro-oncologist and a distinguished investigator at CBTN, Dr. Leary is well-equipped for her new responsibilities. She is currently an attending physician at Seattle Children's Hospital, a respected professor of pediatrics at the University of Washington School of Medicine, and the medical director of clinical research at the Ben Towne Center for Childhood Cancer Research. Her familiarity with multidisciplinary research approaches will undoubtedly guide CBTN's efforts toward improving the futures of children facing these critical health challenges.

Commitment to Data-Driven Care

Dr. Adam Resnick, the Scientific Director of CBTN, stated, "Sarah understands both the complexity of pediatric brain tumor research and the urgency of connecting it more directly to the bedside." This understanding aligns with her commitment to formulate a plan that learns from every child involved—not just those participating in clinical trials—using those insights to foster research-informed care.

As CBTN evolves from merely a research repository into a continuously learning health system, Dr. Leary's leadership will be pivotal. Initiatives like the Real-time Analysis and Discovery in Integrated And Networked Technologies (RADIANT), the Pediatric Proton/Photon Consortium Registry (PPCR), and the Pediatric Care eXpansion program (PCX) aim to streamline clinical data collection, merge molecular and imaging insights with outcomes, and expand participant engagement across pediatric healthcare institutions. These advancements promise to enhance the understanding of childhood brain tumors and facilitate the use of real-world evidence to inform both research and clinical strategies.

Connecting and Collaborating

In her new role, Dr. Leary will not only help set the annual goals for CBTN but also guide various scientific initiatives and improve engagement among participating institutions. She will represent CBTN within various spheres—including research, clinical environments, philanthropy, and industry—further strengthening collaborative efforts.

Dr. Leary also chairs the Central Nervous System Committee of the Children's Oncology Group (COG) and serves on the National Cancer Institute's Brain Malignancy Steering Committee. Her research interests are focused on enhancing the outcomes for children, adolescents, and young adults battling brain tumors, illustrating a comprehensive commitment to these vulnerable populations.

The Vision Ahead

In her inaugural statement following the appointment, Dr. Leary expressed her vision: "We have an opportunity to connect data-driven discovery and care in ways that were not possible when CBTN began. By integrating molecular diagnostics, advanced imaging, and treatment outcome data in real time across institutions, we can gain a deeper understanding of each child's unique experiences leading to better care for future patients."

With Dr. Leary's expertise and vision guiding CBTN, the network is well-positioned to make significant strides in pediatric brain tumor research, ultimately benefiting countless children and their families. As they embark on this new chapter, the community remains hopeful for the advances that science and collaborative care will bring.

About the Children's Brain Tumor Network

CBTN is a collective effort, uniting researchers, clinicians, institutions, and families to ensure that valuable pediatric brain tumor data and biospecimens are effectively utilized. With more than 35 participating institutions and data contributions from over 9,000 children and young adults, CBTN stands as one of the foremost pediatric brain tumor research resources globally. Through enhanced sharing of these resources, the network assists scientists in tackling bold inquiries and hastening promising discoveries towards those in need.

For more information on CBTN, visit CBTN.org.