Research
Our 30 research groups, based around 18 research themes, work together under a common goal of education and surgical intervention.
Teaching
We offer opportunities for research training for clinical and non-clinical graduates and host two taught master's courses. We are also responsible for delivering the surgical training to Medical School undergraduates.
Engagement
We aim to showcase our research, inspire the younger generation, engage with the local community and raise debate on the impact of science on society.
News
NDS hosts third annual Student Symposium highlighting research excellence
17 July 2025
On Wednesday 3 July, the Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences (NDS) hosted its third annual NDS Student Symposium at the Richard Doll Building on Oxford's Old Road Campus.
Oxford’s OrganOx wins the MacRobert Award 2025
9 July 2025
The Royal Academy of Engineering has announced that OrganOx has won the £50,000 MacRobert Award, the longest running and most prestigious prize for UK engineering innovation, for its life-saving technology that is supporting more organ transplants and helping to cut waiting lists.
Oxford neurosurgeon secures nearly £2 million for brain cancer trial
17 June 2025
Associate Professor Puneet Plaha of the Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences has been awarded a £1.98 million NIHR Health Technology Assessment (HTA) grant to lead a five-year clinical trial addressing one of the most critical questions in brain cancer care.
Oxford’s OrganOx is shortlisted for the MacRobert Award 2025
16 June 2025
The Royal Academy of Engineering has announced the finalists for the 2025 MacRobert Award, the longest running and most prestigious prize for UK engineering innovation.
Surgical Grand Rounds
The Surgical Grand Rounds are the key educational meetings for consultants, juniors and medical students. Presentations revolve around clinical cases and are followed by lively, educational discussion.
Resources for Researchers
Explore our collection of resources useful to researchers in all parts of the research process, from experimental techniques to publication and review.
Latest publications
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Patients' priorities in kidney stone disease.
Journal article
Popoola V. et al, (2025), Ann R Coll Surg Engl
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Commercialization of medical artificial intelligence guided vascular imaging technologies: challenges and opportunities
Journal article
Lee R. et al, (2025), npj Digital Medicine
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Selective remodelling of the adipose niche in obesity and weight loss.
Journal article
Miranda AMA. et al, (2025), Nature
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Ex vivo model of functioning human lymph node reveals role for innate lymphocytes and stroma in response to vaccine adjuvant.
Journal article
Fergusson JR. et al, (2025), Cell Rep, 44
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An intensive weight loss programme with behavioural support for people with type 2 diabetes at risk of eating disorders in England (ARIADNE): a randomised, controlled, non-inferiority trial
Journal article
Tsompanaki E. et al, (2025), Lancet Psychiatry, 12, 483 - 492
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No turning back: a long-term retrospective analysis of urgent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) performed for suspected cauda equina compression in a tertiary referral centre
Journal article
Stoddart C. et al, (2025), Clinical Radiology, 86
Founded in 1937
Over 170 staff, students and academic visitors
AI at NDS
NDS is at the interface between modern clinical care and cutting-edge data science.
Women in Science
We are making positive changes to the way we support staff, including women scientists, in the department.
Supporting Our Staff
We actively promote the provision of a family friendly working environment, equal opportunities and career development.
Study With Us
Postgraduate and Continuing Professional Development opportunities.
Contact us
The Department's administration team is located in the John Radcliffe Hospital in Headington, Oxford.
Videos
Watch some of our researchers presenting their work.