SpR – Cardiothoracic Surgery

The Specialist Registrar (SpR) in Cardiothoracic Surgery plays a critical role in delivering high-quality specialist surgical care to patients with complex cardiac and thoracic conditions. As a key contributor to clinical excellence at Oxford, the SpR ensures safe, effective, and compassionate care while working collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.

This position requires strong clinical reasoning, surgical insight, the ability to work autonomously, and a commitment to evidence-based practice. Typical duties include patient assessment, contributing to diagnosis and surgical planning, developing and implementing perioperative care plans, monitoring outcomes, maintaining detailed clinical records, and supporting governance, audit, and service-improvement initiatives.

The role involves active participation in theatre sessions, ward rounds, multidisciplinary meetings, training sessions, and quality initiatives aimed at enhancing patient experience and optimising surgical outcomes. Professionalism, empathy, resilience, and adaptability are essential, particularly when supporting patients and families through complex surgical journeys and high-risk procedures.

In addition to core clinical responsibilities, the SpR is expected to support junior medical staff, contribute to teaching, and engage in continuous learning to advance surgical skills and professional competence. The ability to manage complex caseloads, prioritise effectively, and remain calm under pressure is fundamental within a high-acuity, fast-paced surgical environment.

The role requires adherence to all clinical governance frameworks, safeguarding requirements, and regulatory standards while promoting a culture of safety, dignity, and respect. Leadership qualities such as problem-solving, initiative, and strategic thinking further strengthen the SpR’s contribution to overall surgical service effectiveness.

Strong interpersonal skills and a patient-centred approach underpin the position, ensuring that care delivery aligns with organisational values and supports Oxford’s broader healthcare mission. The role demands ongoing professional development, adaptability, strong teamwork, and a sustained commitment to delivering consistently high-quality cardiothoracic care.

Key Responsibilities:

• Deliver safe, effective, high‑quality clinical services.
• Conduct assessments and develop patient‑centred treatment plans.
• Maintain accurate documentation and adhere to clinical guidelines.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams.
• Support service development and quality improvement initiatives.
• Participate in training, teaching, and supervision where appropriate.
• Uphold safeguarding, governance, and regulatory standards.

Key Requirements:

• Relevant professional qualification and registration.
• Experience in the specialty of practice.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to work autonomously and manage workloads.
• Commitment to evidence‑based and patient‑centred care.
• Understanding of clinical governance and risk management.
• Professionalism, reliability, and problem‑solving skills.