ASSOCIATED PROJECTS

Head and neck cancer

I was first exposed to research during my intercalated BSc at Imperial College, where I conducted a pilot study into the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to diagnose ultrasound images of thyroid cancer. This experience helped me to appreciate the scientific process, its role in advancing clinical practice, and the transferable skills that can be obtained by carrying out research. 

Following this experience, I was keen to continue my involvement with research. The ASFP sounded like a great opportunity to participate in interesting projects during protected time, whilst developing as a doctor through clinical rotations. 

My ASFP consisted of academic day-release during my first rotation of F1, followed by a 4-month block dedicated to research as my final rotation in F2. This has allowed me to get involved with several projects, such as: 

• Analysis of multiplex immunofluorescence images of head and neck cancer using R programming;
• A scoping review on the use of fluorescent markers to detect head and neck cancer;
• A systematic review on the complications of cochlear implant surgery in low- and middle-income countries.

In addition, I have been trained to consent patients to allow for the collection of tissue samples for research. 

OUCAGS have also organised valuable educational events for us to attend, such as the OUCAGS forums and the Introduction to Medical Research: Essential Skills course. 

The Oxford ASFP has plenty of advantages:

• you can choose your own project and access University facilities,
• there is a generous academic budget that can be used to fund conferences, and
• having academic time in at least two Foundation jobs allows you to work on longer-term projects.

The programme has motivated me to continue pursuing a career in academic Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) surgery. 

You do need to manage your time well in order to balance clinical responsibilities, but this is very achievable. There may also be times where you end up working on projects outside of your protected academic time. 

The Oxford ASFP was particularly appealing as it would allow me to select my own supervisors and projects that align with my interests and career aspirations. Also, the concept of having academic day-release in F1 seemed to be unique to the Oxford programme, which would allow me to start setting up projects at an early stage. 

Moreover, the University of Oxford is a world-renowned institution with cutting-edge research centres, and so I was excited by the prospect of working and learning from the community here. 

Just as importantly, Oxford is a beautiful place to live!

June 2025