Rich W. Byrne, M.D.

Dr. Richard W. Byrne is a board-certified neurosurgeon and Chair of the Department of Neurological Surgery at Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida. With more than 25 years of experience, he specializes in the treatment of brain tumors and complex neurological conditions, including epilepsy, trigeminal neuralgia, gliomas, pituitary tumors, brain metastases, meningiomas, and acoustic neuromas, as well as skull base surgery and radiosurgery.

Dr. Byrne earned his undergraduate degree in biology from the University of Illinois, graduating Phi Beta Kappa, and received his medical degree from Northwestern University Medical School in 1991. He completed his neurosurgery residency and additional training in brain tumor and epilepsy surgery at Rush University Medical Center, where he remained on faculty. During his tenure at Rush, he served as acting Chairman of the Department of Neurosurgery in 2005, became Chairman in 2007, and served as Residency Program Director from 2006 to 2009. In 2013, he was named the Roger C. Bone, M.D., Presidential Professor of Rush University.

At Mayo Clinic, Dr. Byrne works closely with a multidisciplinary team to develop personalized treatment plans for patients with complex brain and skull base conditions. His approach focuses on advanced surgical techniques to maximize tumor removal while preserving neurological function and quality of life. He also has extensive experience in the surgical treatment of epilepsy and trigeminal neuralgia.

He emphasizes compassionate, patient-centered care and strong relationships with the patients he treats, sharing: "What I love about neurosurgery is the ability to make an immediate impact. When I see someone with a brain tumor, I can often help them get on the road to recovery within days. I believe in getting to know patients and their families and doing all I can to provide compassionate care while striving for surgical excellence. Advances in neurosurgery have made that possible, and it's incredibly rewarding to be part of that progress."

Dr. Byrne is nationally recognized for his contributions to neurosurgery, with more than 150 peer-reviewed publications, book chapters and two books. Beyond his clinical and academic work, he has helped shape the field through leadership roles in several major neurosurgical organizations, including serving as President of the Neurosurgical Society of America and the Society of Neurological Surgeons, as well as holding leadership positions with the Congress of Neurological Surgeons, the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, and multiple regional societies.

Outside of medicine, Dr. Byrne enjoys competing in triathlons, fishing and traveling. He values time with his family, including his two daughters—one a neurosurgery resident and the other a fourth-year medical student.