Virtual Academic Surgery Conference 2026

VASC 2026: Expanding the Horizons of Academic Surgery

Join us for the Virtual Academic Surgery Conference 2026, a dynamic student-led conference exploring the evolving landscape of academic surgery and the diverse pathways available to aspiring clinicians and researchers.

This year’s theme, “Expanding the Horizons of Academic Surgery,” highlights innovation, interdisciplinary thinking, and the wide range of opportunities within academic surgery. Whether you're just beginning to explore research or actively building your academic portfolio, this conference will offer valuable insight into how academia can shape both patient care and your future career.

🔬 What to expect:
• Inspiring talks outlining the progression of an academic surgical career - from MBPhD and Academic Foundation Programme (AFP) to Academic Clinical Fellow (ACF), Academic Clinical Lecturer (ACL), and Professorship
• Practical guidance on getting involved in academic surgery early and strengthening future applications
• Exploration of cutting-edge topics, including regenerative medicine and innovation in surgical practice
• Opportunities to present your work and engage with peers and experts

🎤 Speakers include:
• Professor Paul Lee – Regeneration by Design: Science-based principles of regenerative medicine
• Professor Scarlett McNally – Planning entry-level academic aspects of surgery
• Mr James Arwyn-Jones – Insights into Academic ENT

🏆 Abstract Competition – NOW OPEN
We strongly encourage students and early-career researchers to submit their work for our abstract competition. A fantastic opportunity to present your research, gain feedback from experienced clinicians, and be recognised for your contributions.

🗓 Deadline: 7th April 2026, 11:59 pm

🏅 Prizes: (oral + poster categories respectively)
• 1st – £70 + £30 Amazon vouchers
• 2nd – 2 × Geeky Medics Clinical Skills Bundles (12 months)
• 3rd – 2 x MLABuddy 1-month premium access

We welcome submissions aligned with the conference theme, including original research, audits, QIPs, case reports, and narrative reviews.

📩 Submission details:
Submit a ≤250-word abstract to: [email protected]
Subject: VASC 2026 Abstract Submission

✨ Presentation opportunities:
• Top 10 abstracts selected for presentation
• Top 3 → Oral presentations (6 min + 2 min Q&A), meaning everyone in this category gets a prize… 👀
• Remaining → Poster presentations (3 min + 1 min Q&A)

All abstracts will be reviewed by Dr Alex Ng, with live judging by conference speakers on the day.

Don’t miss your chance to present, network, and gain recognition for your work.

Whether you're interested in surgery, research, or combining both, VASC 2026 is the perfect opportunity to gain inspiration, practical guidance, and connect with like-minded peers. 

Book your FREE ticket now! 🎟️