NES/CSO Clinical Lecturer in Surgery, University of Glasgow

Honorary Specialist Registrar in General and Colorectal Surgery

Glasgow Royal Infirmary, Glasgow, Scotland

My experience as a research fellow at the Price Institute was the best thing I have ever done. As a junior surgical trainee, it was a perfect time in my career to spend some dedicated time towards focused study of important surgical problems such as surgical infection and colorectal cancer. The process of recruitment was welcoming and professional, and unlike some research experiences, the set up allows for independent thought and supervised freedom to explore self-directed scientific questions. 

For clinicians with limited or no prior laboratory experience, the supervision, support and mentorship from the pipette to presentation was excellent. The input from the highly experienced supervisors Dr. Galandiuk and Dr. Polk was very regular and thorough; a rare opportunity to work closely with and learn from leaders in the field of academic surgery. As part of the highly functioning Department of Surgery, the experience is rewarded beyond the laboratory with exposure to the culture of US surgery, teaching, visiting professors and departmental social events and collaboration across the University. Great memories and highlights are also from opportunities to present research nationally and internationally at premier US surgical meetings. Louisville is a great place to live with great food, beautiful parks and fun sporting events. 

The experience gave me great experience in basic and clinical science, a long list of publications in keeping with a strong track record achieved by most fellows, new networks and long-lasting friendships and a massive CV boost. For me, this has provided a strong academic backbone to my career which has been instrumental in securing an academic lecturer post in the UK and well-positioned for a future in academic surgery. I would strongly recommend.