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
Study tests whether deep brain stimulation can treat chronic pain
3 February 2026
A research study by Oxford neurosurgeons and engineers is trialling whether deep brain stimulation (DBS) – delivering an electrical pulse into affected areas of the brain – can help to relieve central post-stroke pain (CPSP).
Treatment of tumours with sound: New high-intensity focused ultrasound machine installed
2 February 2026
A new state-of-the-art high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) machine has been installed at the Churchill Hospital, giving Oxford University Hospitals (OUH) cancer patients access to the latest in this innovative technology.
New clinical study launched examining the role of insulin in breast cancer treatment response
28 January 2026
A new clinical study has launched to investigate whether insulin levels influence how women with the most common type of breast cancer respond to treatment.
Testing the feasibility of MRI scanning for the assessment and monitoring of kidneys before and after transplantation
23 January 2026
A new clinical study, led by researchers at the University of Oxford, Oxford University Hospitals and the University of Nottingham, is exploring whether advanced MRI scanning of kidneys before and after transplantation could provide a non-invasive, objective way to evaluate donor organs and monitor transplant health – potentially transforming how kidneys are assessed and managed within routine clinical practice.
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.