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Michael Lucas James

Professor of Anesthesiology
Anesthesiology, Neuroanesthesia
Box 3094 Med Ctr, Durham, NC 27710
5619D HAFS Building, Durham, NC 27710

Overview


With a clinical background in neuroanesthesia and neurointensive care, I have a special interest in translational research in intracerebral hemorrhage and traumatic brain injury. I am fortunate to be part of a unique team of highly motivated and productive individuals who allow me to propel ideas from bench to bedside and the ability to reverse translate ideas from the bedside back to the bench.

Current Appointments & Affiliations


Professor of Anesthesiology · 2023 - Present Anesthesiology, Neuroanesthesia, Anesthesiology
Assistant Vice Chancellor for Duke-NUS Research · 2021 - Present Anesthesiology, Clinical Science Departments
Professor in Neurology · 2023 - Present Neurology, Clinical Science Departments
Professor in Neurosurgery · 2023 - Present Neurosurgery, Neurosurgery
Member in the Duke Clinical Research Institute · 2018 - Present Duke Clinical Research Institute, Institutes and Centers

Recent Publications


Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome in Patients with Intracerebral Hemorrhage.

Journal Article J Clin Med · December 26, 2025 Introduction: Patients with an intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) have been shown to have a high incidence of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). We aimed to determine the incidence of ARDS following ICH in the era of lung-protective ventilation. We al ... Full text Link to item Cite

WHITE MATTER MATTERS: New Approach to the Brain's Hidden Half Using Circulating Oligodendrocyte-Derived Extracellular Vesicles.

Journal Article Cells · November 12, 2025 White matter, comprising 60% of the human brain, is formed by axonal fibers supported by oligodendrocytes. It is essential for brain communication, yet damage can accumulate silently leading to severe neurological problems. Current diagnostics detect chang ... Full text Link to item Cite

Early beta-blocker exposure and association with brain injury biomarkers following moderate to severe traumatic brain injury: A TRACK-TBI study.

Journal Article J Intensive Care Soc · November 2025 BACKGROUND: Beta-blockers have been studied for potential benefits in traumatic brain injury (TBI). This study aimed to investigate the association between early beta-blocker exposure and brain injury biomarkers following moderate-severe TBI. METHODS: We c ... Full text Open Access Link to item Cite
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Recent Grants


Mid-Atlantic praGmatic NETwork for Inclusive Clinical trials in emergency care (MAGNETIC)

ResearchCo-Principal Investigator · Awarded by National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke · 2023 - 2028

CN105 improves surrogate and functional outcomes after intracerebral hemorrhage (Subaward to AegisCN)

ResearchPrincipal Investigator · Awarded by AegisCN LLC · 2024 - 2026

Brain Oxygen Optimization in Severe Traumatic Brain Injury (BOOST-3)

Clinical TrialPrincipal Investigator · Awarded by University of Michigan · 2019 - 2025

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Education, Training & Certifications


Louisiana State University · 1999 M.D.