A surgeon has said he will "serve as a unifying figure" after announcing he is running to become the next chancellor of the University of Oxford.

Professor Simon Kay has dedicated nearly 50 years to supporting medical advancements.

His candidacy is focused on championing the diverse needs of the university community while preserving its esteemed heritage.

Professor Kay, who is a reconstructive surgeon, has a wealth of real-world, academic and business experience.

As a professor of hand surgery at the University of Leeds, he led the establishment and direction of the UK's National Hand Transplantation Programme.

Professor Simon KayProfessor Simon Kay (Image: Professor Simon Kay)

This programme has earned international recognition as the most successful programme of its kind globally.

He said: "My time at Oxford instilled in me the self-belief, discipline, and ambition that have guided my varied and fulfilling career.

"As chancellor, I will listen attentively to the concerns of students, alumni and staff, while upholding the traditions that make this university great.

"I am committed to advocating for open, inclusive and fair debate, and to working closely with the vice-chancellor and university staff to ensure Oxford remains relevant and thriving in our rapidly changing world.

"I will serve as a unifying figure, truly representing the diverse perspectives of current students, faculty and alumni.

"With no competing obligations, I am fully committed to dedicating my time and energy exclusively to the role of chancellor, ensuring that Oxford's future is shaped by a leader with clear focus and impartiality."

He has authored many peer-reviewed papers, served as editor-in-chief of two award-winning textbooks and helped to turn the Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery into a leading international publication through his editorial leadership.

He believes his international work experiences across healthcare systems in Australia, the USA, Sweden, and Vietnam would serve him well as chancellor.

He added: "My career has been driven by a commitment to improving lives and advancing knowledge.

"I see the role of chancellor as an opportunity to serve the university that has given me so much and to be a proud and dedicated ambassador for its achievements and reputation."

In addition to his medical and academic accomplishments, professor Kay has served on the advisory board of the Royal Armouries Museum and as a director and trustee of the Thackray Medical Museum.

He has a wide-ranging interest in history, literature and science, and experience in public speaking and media.

Professor Kay’s candidacy is "deeply rooted in respect for Oxford's traditions, paired with a forward-looking approach to addressing the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for the university".