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Founded in 2020 by Riana Patel and Taylor Ottesen, the 'Global Scalpels' podcast aims to bring together a number of interesting speakers to show the work behind the scenes in global surgery and to highlight the people creating some of the most innovative projects in sectors such as technology, law, advocacy, and research.

Global Scalpels logo

The podcast is targeted towards anyone interested in the field of global surgery – surgeons, technology wizards,  businesspeople, and researchers alike. Through it, we aim to highlight that global surgery is a team effort and that engagement with all professionals is essential to provide the 143 million additional surgical procedures required annually. In addition, this podcast aims to bring conference-level discussions to the palm of people's hand, allowing anyone to listen anywhere for free.

To date, we have been featured at two major conferences, have released over 25 episodes, and have had over 6000 listens from all over the globe - from Haiti, to Kenya, to the United States. 

If you would like to hear more, search for Global Scalpels on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, and more. Alternatively, feel free to follow us on our X (Twitter)Instagram, or Facebook page.

Blog posts

Running to make a difference: Sheraz Markar takes on the London Marathon

NDS Professor of Upper Gastrointestinal Surgery and Director of NDS SITU, Sheraz Markar, is set to run the 2026 London Marathon on Sunday 26 April in support of the Oxfordshire Oesophageal and Stomach Organisation (OOSO).

Creating space for reflection and learning: Maisie's story

HR Advisor Maisie Coolman reflects on how mentoring supported her in gaining clarity, building confidence, and taking ownership of her development at Oxford.

Sixty Seconds with Fadi Issa

Professor Fadi Issa is Professor of Transplantation in NDS, and recently took up the divisional role of Academic Lead for Research Funding. In this interview, Fadi reflects on the importance of resilience and clarity of thinking, shares what the role involves, what is changing in the funding landscape, and offers practical advice for early career researchers navigating competition, rejection and the realities of grant writing.

Reaching new heights: The journey to Everest Base Camp

NDS Finance Officer, Rajesh Kafle, shares the story of his journey to the Everest Base Camp from Nepal.

BAPS Hugh Greenwood Neonatal Surgical Skills Course: Strengthening technical excellence in paediatric surgery across COSECSA

The Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences (NDS), in partnership with the British Association of Paediatric Surgeons (BAPS) and COSECSA, proudly ran the 2025 Hugh Greenwood Neonatal Surgical Skills Course, a flagship hands-on workshop that continues to shape the next generation of paediatric surgeons across East, Central and Southern Africa.