Indiana University Opens Neuro-Oncology Research Center

The new facility in Indianapolis aims to expand treatment options for patients facing brain cancer diagnoses.

Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Cancer

Indiana University Opens Neuro-Oncology Research Center

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Indiana University announced the establishment of the Jeff Schwarz Center for Neuro-Oncology Research on September 24, 2026. The new center is dedicated to advancing experimental treatments for patients suffering from aggressive brain cancers.

Why it matters

The center was established to honor the memory of Jeff Schwarz, who passed away from glioblastoma in 2023, and to provide greater access to cutting-edge clinical trials within Indiana.

The center is supported by a $15 million investment, including a $10 million family gift and $5 million from the IU School of Medicine. It operates within 12,000 square feet of space inside the Medical Education and Research Building.

The players

Jeff Schwarz

He was a patient whose battle with glioblastoma led his family to fund research to improve outcomes for others facing brain cancer.

IU School of Medicine

This institution is a major medical research center that houses the new facility and provided a significant portion of its initial funding.

The details

The facility brings together specialists in fields such as cancer biology, neurosurgery, imaging, and drug development to translate laboratory discoveries into human clinical trials. It will also fund two new endowed faculty positions to lead research efforts.

2019: The Schwarz family joins the development board.
Late 2022: Jeff Schwarz is diagnosed with glioblastoma.
November 2023: Jeff Schwarz dies from the condition.
September 24, 2026: The university announces the creation of the center.

The Big Picture

This project builds upon the existing framework of the IU School of Medicine neuro-oncology program. This expansion marks a departure from standard research funding by creating a dedicated, multidisciplinary hub for glioblastoma trials.

The center aims to provide patients in Indiana with access to experimental treatments that were previously unavailable locally. This could streamline the process for those seeking specialized neuro-oncological care without the need for out-of-state travel.

The takeaway

Advancements in neuro-oncology research are critical as the medical community seeks to improve the long-term survival rates for brain cancer patients. Patients and families are encouraged to consult with their oncologists to track how new clinical trial facilities may expand their treatment options.