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 shows AI can be safely deployed in NHS prostate cancer diagnosis
14 July 2026
Findings from the landmark Articulate Pro study have now been published, marking a major milestone for the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in NHS histopathology laboratories and demonstrating its potential to improve and standardise prostate cancer diagnosis.
SITU NDS teams recognised at OCTRU Clinical Trials Unit Awards
13 July 2026
Staff and trial teams from the Surgical Intervention Trials Unit in the Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences (SITU NDS) have been recognised with multiple honours at the Oxford Clinical Trials Research Unit (OCTRU) Clinical Trials Unit Awards, held on Tuesday 30 June 2026.
World-first perfused pancreas transplant marks major Oxford study milestone
9 July 2026
A clinical study at the University of Oxford has recruited its first participant, marking the world’s first successful transplantation of a perfused human pancreas and a major advance in efforts to improve organ preservation for transplantation.
Oxford recognised for excellence at British Association of Paediatric Surgeons Congress
7 July 2026
Oxford University Global Surgery Group at the Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences (NDS) was strongly represented at this year’s British Association of Paediatric Surgeons (BAPS) Congress in Manchester, with contributions spanning prestigious awards, keynote lectures, prize-winning research, and a wide range of trainee and student presentations. While members of NDS have long played a prominent role in the BAPS Annual Congress, this year’s meeting showcased the department’s work more prominently than ever.
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
Association between deep cervical lymph node dissection and dementia incidence in patients with head and neck cancer: a systematic review
Journal article
Omar M. et al, (2026), European Journal of Plastic Surgery, 49
Can GLP-1RA be utilised for pre-operative liver optimisation prior to hepatectomy? A scoping review of MASLD evidence with surgical translation
Journal article
Vaitha R. et al, (2026), Clinical Surgical Oncology, 5, 100136 - 100136
Resilience Engineering concepts, Safety-II language, FRAM practice, and co-creating communities: how Hollnagel reshaped patient safety
Journal article
Sujan M. et al, (2026), Safety Science, 200
Quality of Life Trajectory Clusters in Adults Living With XLH: Findings From theUK RUDY Study
Conference paper
PINEDO VILLANUEVA R. et al, (2026)
Exploring the role of focused ultrasound in neurosurgery and neuro-oncology.
Journal article
Himic V. et al, (2026), J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry
MAD-MT Score: A Tool to Optimize Patient Selection for Mechanical Thrombectomy in Distal Vessel Occlusions.
Journal article
Chen H. et al, (2026), Stroke
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.