Joseph C. Maroon, MD is Professor of Neurosurgery at UPMC and Heindl Scholar in Neuroscience. He serves as longtime team neurosurgeon for the Pittsburgh Steelers and consultant for WWE. Dr. Maroon has authored 340+ peer-reviewed papers, seven books, and co-developed ImPACT®, the standard concussion management tool used by the NFL and other contact sports. His research focuses on minimally invasive brain and spine surgery, traumatic injuries, and aging-related diseases. He has served as president of the Congress of Neurological Surgeons and is a member of the NFL Head, Neck, and Spine Committee.

A dedicated athlete, Dr. Maroon has completed over 75 triathlons, including eight Ironman races and five World Championships in Kona. His awards include the Lou Holtz Hall of Fame, Jerome Bettis Humanitarian Award, NFL Physicians Society’s Arthur C. Rettig Award, and the 2025 Ellis Island Medal of Honor for contributions to sports medicine.