New fellowship trains the next generation of brain tumor physician-scientists
National Brain Tumor Society (NBTS) today announced the selection of Pierre Manuel Bita Ongolo (Manuel Bita) as the first NBTS Neuro-Oncology Research Fellow at the Winship Brain Tumor Center at Emory University. Bita was chosen from more than 150 applicants following a national search.
The fellowship aims to train future brain tumor physician-scientists while working to address health care barriers for underserved communities. Serving in the Brain Tumor Immunotherapy lab of Edjah Nduom, MD, leader of the Brain Tumor Disease Team at Winship Cancer Institute, the program pairs immersive clinical and research experience with a commitment to expanding access to clinical trials.
“Manuel brings a strong foundation in molecular and translational neuroscience, along with a demonstrated commitment to patient-centered care and advocacy,” said Dr. Nduom, who will directly mentor Bita. “His curiosity, technical skill, and passion for advancing brain tumor research make him an outstanding representative of the next generation of leaders in neuro-oncology.”
Over the course of the one-year fellowship, Bita will take part in neurosurgical oncology clinics and operations, translational research, and early-phase clinical trial development. He will also receive training in grant and scientific writing and present his contributions to NBTS upon completion.
“I am deeply honored to be selected as the inaugural NBTS Neuro-oncology Research Fellow,” said Bita. “My connection to the National Brain Tumor Society makes this opportunity especially meaningful, given my previous experience volunteering on the community side, helping raise funds so NBTS could support research that brings hope to patients and families affected by brain tumors. To now be entrusted with NBTS funding to contribute directly to the same mission is both humbling and motivating. I am deeply grateful to NBTS, Dr. Nduom, and the Winship Brain Tumor Center for this opportunity.”
Bita brings hands-on expertise in cell culture, neurobiological imaging in animal models, and experimental design, and has volunteered locally with NBTS events. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience before completing a Master of Science in the same field at Georgia State University, while also serving as a graduate research assistant in the university’s Neuroscience Institute. Bita has also completed a brief internship as a visiting observer at Stanford Neurosurgery in December of 2025. Before arriving at Emory, he served part-time as a Volunteer Research Assistant at Duke Global Neurosurgery and Neurology (DGNN) Division. He plans to pursue a career as a physician-scientist, translating research discoveries into clinical advances for patients.
“Providing opportunities to train and mentor the next generation of brain tumor clinician researchers is an important part of the National Brain Tumor Society’s research strategy to enable the development of better treatments and improve quality of life for all patients facing a brain tumor diagnosis,” said David Arons, president and chief executive officer of the National Brain Tumor Society. “We’re proud to support Manuel’s fellowship under the leadership of Dr. Nduom.”
About the National Brain Tumor Society
Building on over 30 years of experience, the National Brain Tumor Society (NBTS) unrelentingly invests in, mobilizes, and unites the brain tumor community to discover a cure, deliver effective treatments, and advocate for patients and caregivers. Our focus on defeating brain tumors and improving the quality of patients’ lives is powered by our partnerships across the science, health care, policy, and business sectors. We fund treatments-focused research and convene those most critical to curing brain tumors — once and for all. Learn more at BrainTumor.org.
About Winship Cancer Institute
Dedicated to discovering cures for cancer and inspiring hope, Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University is Georgia’s only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, a prestigious distinction given to the top tier of cancer centers nationwide for making breakthroughs against cancer. Winship is researching, developing, teaching and providing patients with novel and highly effective ways to prevent, detect, diagnose, treat and survive cancer. Cancer care at Winship includes leading cancer specialists collaborating across disciplines to tailor treatment plans to each patient’s needs; innovative therapies and clinical trials; comprehensive patient and family support services; and a care experience aimed at easing the burden of cancer. Winship is Where Science Becomes Hope.®
