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Research Programs

The Department of Surgery has over 40 researchers representing all surgical disciplines.

We support surgeon-scientists across their career trajectory, supporting and mentoring surgical residents, fellows and faculty in addition to providing dedicated research opportunities for PhD students and post-doctoral trainees.

The department’s portfolio of research spans the the framework of translational research:

  • Basic Research (Discovery Science)

    Basic research in surgical specialties focuses on understanding the fundamental biology that drives disease. Our investigators study cellular and molecular mechanisms—such as tumor growth, tissue regeneration, and immune response—to uncover new pathways and targets for therapy. This work lays the scientific foundation for future innovations in diagnosis and treatment, often years before they reach the bedside.

  • Clinical Research (Bench to Bedside)

    Translational research bridges the gap between laboratory discoveries and clinical application. In surgical disciplines, this includes developing and testing new technologies, biomarkers, and therapeutic strategies that can move from experimental models into early-phase clinical use. By integrating scientific insight with clinical expertise, our teams accelerate the conversion of promising discoveries into practical tools that improve patient care.

  • Outcomes Research (Impact and Effectiveness)

    Outcomes research evaluates how surgical care performs in real-world settings, focusing on patient results, safety, quality, and value. Using clinical data, registries, and population-level analysis, this work identifies best practices, reduces disparities, and informs evidence-based decision-making. The goal is to ensure that innovations and treatments not only work in theory, but consistently deliver meaningful benefits to our patients.