In 2023, many LS authors make outstanding contributions to our journal. Their articles published with us have received very well feedback in the field and stimulate a lot of discussions and new insights among the peers.

Hereby, we would like to highlight some of our outstanding authors who have been making immense efforts in their research fields, with a brief interview of their unique perspective and insightful view as authors.

Outstanding Authors (2023)

Robert P. Sutcliffe, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, UK

Outstanding Author

Robert P. Sutcliffe

Robert P. Sutcliffe obtained his primary medical qualification at University of Cambridge in 1995. He developed an interest in pursuing a career in surgery whilst working in the surgical departments at Addenbrookes Hospital in Cambridge and Royal Free Hospital in London. He gained some exposure to hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgery, and transplantation surgery and undertook a period of research studying hepatocellular carcinoma at the Institute of Liver Studies at Kings College Hospital, London, which led to the award of an M.D. research degree. This was followed by general surgery registrar training in South London and fellowships in liver transplantation and HPB surgery at Kings College and Royal London Hospitals. He was appointed as consultant HPB surgeon at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, in 2011 and appointed as departmental lead in July 2023. Dr. Sutcliffe’s clinical interests include laparoscopic HPB surgery, laparoscopic adrenalectomy and robotic surgery. He has played a major role in developing the laparoscopic HPB and laparoscopic adrenalectomy services in Birmingham. His research interests include laparoscopic surgery, perioperative care and surgical oncology. Connect with him on X @liveRPancSurg.

LS: What role does academic writing play in science?

Dr. Sutcliffe: My primary research interest is in clinical research, which is positioned between the practice of clinical medicine and scientific experimentation. Engaging in clinical research as a practicing surgeon has several benefits for my patients, my team and myself. As a clinician, I have a deep understanding of the current level of knowledge in my field of practice, and I am aware of the knowledge gaps, as well as being focused on delivering the best care for my next patient. Closing the knowledge gaps by undertaking clinical research is extremely challenging but also very rewarding. Clinical research projects are difficult to design and execute due to wide variations in human disease processes, as well as logistic and financial restraints. Patients do not necessarily behave in a predictable manner, unlike a test tube experiment!

LS: Academic writing takes a lot of time and effort. What motivates you to do so?

Dr. Sutcliffe: I am motivated to undertake research for several reasons. 1) Patient benefit - As a surgeon, I am dedicated to providing my patients with the best possible care. It is not possible to do this without understanding the research evidence behind my decisions. Where I see knowledge gaps, I am interested and motivated to close these gaps by undertaking clinical research. 2) Team working - Successful research requires working collaboratively with colleagues from different disciplines, including scientists, healthcare professionals and biostatisticians. Working with others towards a common goal is extremely rewarding. 3) Educational (personal and colleagues) - Maintaining up-to-date knowledge within my field of clinical practice keeps my brain active, and research provides an excellent balance alongside the clinical and managerial aspects of my work as a surgeon. It is also my responsibility to teach the next generation of surgeons about research, who will need to acquire the necessary skills to be research-active as well as be able to operate.

(by Brad Li, Alisa Lu)