Summer undergraduate research fellowships

“The RCR SURF programme has been a huge benefit to both my clinical and academic development. Being from a widening participation background, it is often difficult to find the rights mentors and gain insight into careers in medicine beyond what is explored on placement. Gaining lasting mentoring relationships has been invaluable and provided a new-found confidence in approaching the academic world. The research skills I have developed through the scheme have translated into my day-to-day practice, pushing me outside of my comfort zone in my approach to research. I can recommend the RCR SURF programme to any medical student who is passionate about Oncology and has a willingness to develop both clinically and academically in their current and future practice.”

Alexander Bald2021 SURF award recipient

“The RCR SURF programme has been of huge benefit to my academic development over the last two years. Off the back of my research project, I have made lasting mentoring relationships that have been invaluable at each new step of my academic training. I have now authored two papers that would not have been possible without the help of the RCR SURF. Moreover, the skills I gained during my SURF have informed additional research and publications within radiation oncology, as well as fields way outside it. I would wholeheartedly recommend applying to the RCR SURF programme to any medical student who has a passion for clinical oncology, and beyond that, those with a real, tangible interest in the basic science that shapes decisions made at the bedside.”

Joe Wilson2019 SURF award recipient

Receiving the SURF award has given me the opportunity to carry out radiotherapy research with direct clinical significance. It enabled me to reflect on a career as a clinician-scientist in the field of clinical oncology, which I have been inspired to pursue. I have developed important skills in research design, methodology and analysis, which I have been putting into practice since. 

Joanna Kucharczak 2022 SURF award recipient

SURF has allowed me to access mentorship that has produced a wealth of opportunities and advice to aid my professional development. I have also had the opportunity to present my research at national conferences, which has been an invaluable experience for me. The opportunity to discuss my work critically with others in the field has been a great learning experience and has only encouraged me further to continue in my goals.

Hira Mayet2022 SURF award recipient

Completing the SURF has played a key part in developing my research skills and I am able to better understand basic science research. The SURF has also led to meaningful research output. I was able to present my work at ESTRO 2024, an international conference, and was also co-author for other published research projects. 

Ng Wee Han 2023 SURF award recipient

The SURF has fuelled my drive towards a career involving research – I found it satisfying and interesting to look at how we could improve treatment for patients and also see how incidental changes, such as those made during the COVID-19 pandemic, could open new avenues for research. It also encouraged me towards clinical oncology; my team were very welcoming and encouraged my curiosity and inquisitiveness. I found that I fit in the team and enjoyed the variety of the job and the potential for individuality. I already felt passionately about clinical oncology before I began my project but it was really useful to see that I also had the capacity for it. 

Ellen Baker 2024 SURF award recipient

My SURF project has reaffirmed my decision to pursue a career in cancer care. I gained valuable insights into digital health and real-world evidence collection, both of which have deepened my understanding of clinical oncology. I now have tentative plans to return early next year to work on a follow-up project with my team, as part of a university module, to further develop this newly found interest. The project provided a comprehensive overview of clinical oncology, and the ongoing mentorship from my supervisors has been instrumental in supporting my enthusiasm for this field.

Gerard Gurumurthy 2024 SURF award recipient

This project has provided a valuable mentorship opportunity that has been instrumental in fostering my interest in oncology. I had the chance to observe the day-to-day workings of a clinical oncologist and gain insight into how the specialty integrates a well-supported clinical role with multidisciplinary teamwork. Additionally, I observed the opportunities for involvement in research alongside clinical practice, which further highlighted the dynamic nature of this field.

I particularly appreciated how clinical oncology offers a blend of procedural skills and meaningful patient interaction, making it a unique and rewarding specialty. Combined with my interest in women’s health, particularly in oncology, this has solidified my aspiration to pursue this career path after medical school.

It has also been a pleasure working with a supportive mentor throughout the fellowship. Her guidance has been invaluable, not only during SURF but also beyond, as we plan to continue collaborating on research projects. My SURF supervisor has also offered thoughtful advice on career progression, which has been both encouraging and motivating. 

Irene Jackson Sillah 2024 SURF award recipient