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Research

Our 30 research groups, based around 18 research themes, work together under a common goal of education and surgical intervention.

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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.

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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.

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News

Brain tumour surgery

Oxford neurosurgeon secures nearly £2 million for brain cancer trial

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.

OrganOx metra Flight

Oxford’s OrganOx is shortlisted for the MacRobert Award 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.

Associate Professor Sarah Howles

Sarah Howles awarded Associate Professor title

The Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences (NDS) is delighted to announce the promotion of Sarah Howles to Associate Professor.

A gloved hand dispensing a sample from a pipette into a receptacle, with test tubes in the background

Early-career researcher wins £1.2 million Wellcome award

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.

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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.

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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.

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Genetic mapping of tumours: New breakthroughs in prostate cancer

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.

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Women in Science

We are making positive changes to the way we support staff, including women scientists, in the department.

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Supporting Our Staff

We actively promote the provision of a family friendly working environment, equal opportunities and career development.

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Study With Us

Postgraduate and Continuing Professional Development opportunities.

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Contact us

The Department's administration team is located in the John Radcliffe Hospital in Headington, Oxford.

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Videos

Watch some of our researchers presenting their work.

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