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
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.
Sarah Howles awarded Associate Professor title
11 June 2025
The Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences (NDS) is delighted to announce the promotion of Sarah Howles to Associate Professor.
Early-career researcher wins £1.2 million Wellcome award
10 June 2025
Mr Keaton Jones from the Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences has secured a prestigious Wellcome Early-Career Award worth £1.2 million. His research will investigate the role of macrophages, a type of immune cell, and their metabolism in driving immunotherapy resistance in pancreatic cancer.
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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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
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Spatial metabolomics informs the use of clinical imaging for improved detection of cribriform prostate cancer.
Journal article
Sushentsev N. et al, (2025), Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A, 122
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The IDEAL framework for machine perfusion in liver transplantation.
Journal article
van Leeuwen OB. et al, (2025), Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol
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Multidisciplinary evidence-based consensus statements on salvage surgery for recurrent head and neck cancer (International Centre for Recurrent head and neck Cancer).
Journal article
Williamson A. et al, (2025), J Natl Cancer Inst
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Incidental finding and surgical management of a diaphragmatic macrocystic lymphatic malformation in a child.
Journal article
Zaky YH. et al, (2025), BMJ Case Rep, 18
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.