Dr. Ashley is a distinguished professor in the Departments of Neurosurgery, Pediatrics, Medicine, and Pathology at Duke University. Dr. Ashley is the Director of The Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center at Duke the largest brain tumor center in North America. His career in cancer research dates more than two decades. His peer-reviewed publication record focuses on CNS tumors is diverse and includes laboratory-based cancer research, clinical trials, as well as public health and psycho-oncology research. His primary research focus is on the immunology, epigenetics, and genetics of brain tumors. His achievements in research have led to change in practice in the care of both children and adults with brain tumors. Dr. Ashley is highly regarded for his work, as evidenced by numerous national grants, awards and invitations to plenary sessions and symposia of international standing.