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
Professor David Cranston honoured with distinguished clinical award
18 June 2026
Professor David Cranston of the Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences (NDS) has been awarded the International Society of Therapeutic Ultrasound’s (ISTU) Clinical Award in recognition of his lifetime contribution to the development of High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU).
Oxford researchers hunt for hidden protein clues to prevent prostate cancer
11 June 2026
A major new research programme, led by Professor Ruth Travis and Dr Karl Smith-Byrne and funded by Cancer Research UK, aims to uncover the biological causes of prostate cancer and identify ways to prevent the disease. The programme is being delivered through a collaboration between researchers in Oxford Population Health and the Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences (NDS).
Double success in Vice-Chancellor’s Awards
10 June 2026
The Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences celebrated a double success at the University of Oxford’s Vice-Chancellor’s Awards last week, receiving both an award win and a highly commended recognition.
Highlights from the NDS Away Day 2026
28 May 2026
On Thursday 7 May, the Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences (NDS) held another highly successful Away Day at St Catherine’s College, Oxford. Bringing together colleagues from across the department, the event provided a valuable opportunity to showcase cutting-edge research, celebrate achievements, and strengthen connections within the NDS community.
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
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
Effects on hippocampal activity following novel 5-HT4 receptor agonism in unmedicated patients with depression: the RESTAND study.
Journal article
de Cates AN. et al, (2026), Transl Psychiatry
Complications of Cochlear Implant Surgery in Low‐ and Middle‐Income Countries: A Systematic Review
Journal article
Srinivasan A. et al, (2026), Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery
Radical Prostatectomy in Low-volume Metastatic Prostate Cancer? The Need for New Evidence.
Journal article
Sooriakumaran P. et al, (2026), Eur Urol
Predictors of deep brain stimulation response in patients with obsessive compulsive disorder: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Journal article
Thavarajasingam SG. et al, (2026), Sci Rep, 16
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.