The 2025 NDS Away Day was a remarkable event that showcased the department's current research and educational activities. It celebrated and recognised the achievements and talent within our community, providing a fantastic opportunity for attendees to learn from one another, network, and share ideas.
Professor Fadi Issa, the newly appointed Professor of Transplantation, delivered the day’s first talk, offering insights into Oxford transplantation research, innovations and future directions.
The event involved several research talks by Professor Clare Verrill, Mr Noel Peter, Mr James Hunter, Dr Sarah Howles, and Dr Dimitrios Doultsinos.
In addition, Dr Doultsinos gave an overview of the early career research representation in the Medical Sciences Division, while Dr Danielle Fairbrass provided an update on the NDS Bioresource Programme.
We were delighted to have many guests present with us on the day. Professor Dominic Furniss (Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, NDORMS), Katherine Ward (Entrepreneur in Residence) and Dr Ferdousi Chowdhury (Director, Research Governance, Ethics and Assurance Team) each gave engaging and insightful talks. While the Andrew Bushell Memorial Lecture was delivered by Professor Stuart Forbes (Director, Institute for Regeneration and Repair), who presented on the development of new therapies for liver disease before and after transplant. We were also excited to host Professor Eleanor Stride, who spoke on the use of stimuli-responsive systems in antimicrobial therapy.
Professors Joanna Hester, Claire Edwards, Ian Mills, and Simon Buczacki expertly chaired all the sessions, and Oxford University Innovation (OUI) were thanked for generously sponsoring the drinks reception, providing attendees with an opportunity to network and unwind. Representatives from OUI also delivered an introductory presentation and hosted an information stand at the event.
During the day, Head of Department Professor Freddie Hamdy announced the winners of the NDS Staff Awards for the year 2024. All members of the department were asked to nominate colleagues in seven categories, and the winners were decided by the NDS Staffing Committee.
Congratulations to the Award winners
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Administrative Professional of the Year
Lisa demonstrates a high level of skill and excellence every day in her role. With an in depth knowledge about the department and processes, enabling her to make informed decisions, whilst considering how the outcome will impact the department and staff members.
Nominees: Zoe Uttley, Maisie Coolman, Jackie Heap, Aimee Hennessy, Rajesh Kafle, Monika Tlalka, Jessica Doondeea
Collaborative Effort of the Year
The GOLF Study team has significantly impacted the research group, unit, and department by successfully opening recruitment for the first large-scale randomized controlled trial (RCT) run solely within SITU. This accomplishment showcases their ability to manage complex projects independently, aligning with their seniority and roles. Their collective efforts have demonstrated dedication and expertise, contributing positively to the wider University.
Nominees: NDS Biobank teams (ORB/ OCHRe, Quantum, OTB) and The TWO Study team
Early Career Researcher of the Year
Catherine has excelled as a DPhil student, producing an extraordinary amount of research work alongside publications, supporting ACFs and FHS medical students and participating in a busy clinical on call rota. Catherine has gained extensive bioinformatic skills and developed a novel methodological approach which will have very broad applicability to the research community and is currently in peer review. Her work will springboard her post doctoral studies.
Nominees: Oliver McCallion, Nainika Menon
Educator of the Year
Anna demonstrates impact directly on the improvement of the students’ results and indirectly in the comprehensive understanding of the immunology theory, methods and practical applications. She is therefore able to provide individual advice to each student based on their capabilities.
Nominees: Lisa Bjork
Research Enabler of the Year
Richard Colling
Since assuming the role of Chief Investigator for the Oxford Radcliffe Biobank (ORB) and Head of the Oxford Centre for Histopathology Research (OCHRe), Richard has played a key role in ensuring the smooth operation of both ORB and OCHRe. His leadership, combined with a genuine interest in the wellbeing of his team and the work they do, has resulted in a positive experience for researchers utilising our services and facilities.
Nominees: Renuka Teague, Marta Oliveira
Val Macauley Community Advocate of the Year
Emily exemplifies true altruism through her dedication to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI), consistently going beyond her role to create meaningful change. Her initiative in developing an outstanding video series has not only amplified diverse voices but also inspired others to pursue careers in research. Beyond this, Emily actively champions EDI initiatives, dedicating personal time and effort to implementing programmes that break down barriers and create more inclusive opportunities.
Nominees: Dimitrios Doultsinos, Ian Mills
The award was presented by Andrew Macauley, Val's husband.
Sir Peter Morris Scientific Achievement of the Year
As the Chief Investigator of the NIHR TRANSLATE trial, Richard secured a £1.5m grant to compare two different approaches to prostate biopsies, which he completed in record time recruiting over 1000 participants nationwide. His primary outcomes paper on which he was first author was selected for publication in Lancet Oncology. This evidence will change practice.
Nominees: Sarah Howles