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
Major new initiative for type 1 diabetes research
28 November 2025
The University of Oxford has received a £10 million donation from the Bukhman Foundation to establish the Bukhman Centre for Research Excellence in Type 1 Diabetes, alongside new academic posts and scholarships.
In Discussion with Funders: Supporting researchers on the path to successful grant applications
27 November 2025
Early- and mid-career researchers from across the Medical Sciences Division gathered on Wednesday 12 November for In Discussion with Funders, a panel event hosted by the Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences (NDS) in the Richard Doll Lecture Theatre at the Old Road Campus.
Oxford Research Training Course empowers global surgery collaborators
11 November 2025
On Saturday 8 November 2025, the Oxford Research Training Course was held virtually, bringing together participants from across Africa and the UK.
Symposium honours the life and legacy of Professor Tipu Aziz
5 November 2025
The Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences (NDS) hosted a special symposium on Friday 17 October 2025 in honour of Professor Tipu Aziz (1956–2024), Emeritus Professor of Neurosurgery and founder and head of Oxford Functional Neurosurgery.
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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Multicentre study of the role of lumbar puncture in the diagnosis of spontaneous subarachnoid haemorrhage
Journal article
Thompson D. et al, (2025), Acta Neurochirurgica, 167
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The COVIDTrach prospective cohort study on outcomes in 1982 tracheostomised COVID-19 patients during the first and second UK pandemic waves
Journal article
Haywood M. et al, (2025), Scientific Reports, 15
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Evaluation of a national digital pre-implantation biopsy service for deceased-donor kidney transplantation in the UK (Pithia trial); a stepped-wedge cluster randomised registry trial.
Journal article
Summers DM. et al, (2025), Lancet Reg Health Eur, 56
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Exploring the implementation and integration of structured medication reviews in primary care: A qualitative evaluation using normalization process theory
Preprint
Reidy C. et al, (2025)
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Activity outcomes after hip arthroplasty: an information tool based on patients' experience captured in a hospital registry.
Journal article
Cole S. et al, (2025), BMC Musculoskelet Disord, 26
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Effective altruism in global health: doing better, justly.
Journal article
Celie K-B. et al, (2025), BMJ Glob Health, 10
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.