Dr Kerry Chou

My journey into research began at university, when I completed an upper gastrointestinal, surgery-themed Master of Research (MRes Dist.) at Norwich Medical School. As a student, I received competitive funding, from the Royal College of Physicians, the Wolfson Foundation, and Guts UK plus Dr Falk Pharma, in support of a population-based study I led with UK Biobank data.

This work fuelled my academic interest in upper gastrointestinal diseases and motivated me to pursue the ASFP. The programme offered a unique opportunity to develop clinical and academic skills concurrently –enhanced by protected research time within a supportive academic environment.  

My ASFP rotations included academic day-release and a protected 4-month research block. I am indebted to Professor Sheraz Markar at the Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences, who supervised me during my training and has helped me develop academically. 

My research has largely focused on translational upper gastrointestinal surgery, which has involved collaborating with DPhil students, ASFP doctors and researchers at the Nuffield Department of Population Health. I have worked on several projects, one of which involved leading the setup of a medical-wearable trial here in Oxford. 

During my ASFP, I also undertook further training at OUCAGS (with EQUATOR’s Introduction to Medical Research course), presented my research, and delivered teaching as an Associate Teaching Fellow with Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.  

Since medical school, my academic interests have centred around translational upper gastrointestinal surgery, an area in which Oxford is widely regarded as an epicentre.

The Oxford programme stood out for its flexibility, as it allows doctors to tailor their training around themes they are passionate about. As a hub for cutting-edge research in this field, Oxford also offers the added benefit of holding the Oxford Gastro-Oesophageal Symposium, further enriching my academic experience.  

There are numerous advantages to the ASFP, some of which include protected research time, networking opportunities with academics and a supportive, exciting research ecosystem. 

The biggest disadvantage to the ASFP, I would say, is that, although there is protected research time, often projects can be unpredictable and extend beyond designated time. Therefore, good time management and organisation skills can go a long way. 

Ultimately, the ASFP has helped me shape my research interests and reaffirmed my desire to pursue a PhD in my future surgical training.

June 2025