The James Weir Foundation Research Grant Awardee Announcement 2025

Published: 21 December 2025

RCSEd, supported by the James Weir Foundation, are delighted to announce the inaugural awardees of the newly established James Weir Foundation Research Grants, which seek to provide strong foundations for innovations in scientific research, which directly improves patient care and outcomes in several targeted areas.

Congratulations to the following individuals.


The James Weir Foundation Research Grant in Scottish Research

Mr Luke Farrow

Title: Rethinking theatre ventilation for primary hip and knee arthroplasty: understanding feasibility, patient perspectives and potential environmental impact

Institution: University of Aberdeen & NHS Grampian


The James Weir Foundation Research Grant in ENT Surgery  

Mr Jimmy Ng 

Title: Changing the Conversation: An Education in ENT Consultation 

Institution: NHS Lothian ENT Department 


The James Weir Foundation Research Grant in General Surgery  

Dr Nesta Baxter

Title: Modelling GORD-Driven Epithelial Transformation Using Novel Patient-Matched Organoids from the Gastric Cardia, Barrett’s Oesophagus and Oesophageal Adenocarcinoma 

Institution: University of East Anglia 


The James Weir Foundation Research Grant in Orthopeadic Surgery

Mrs Samantha Downie 

Title: Development of a novel service and pilot study for hip denervation in patients with metastatic bone disease 

Institution: Trauma & Orthopaedic Department, South Sector NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde 


The James Weir Foundation Research Grant in Dentistry  

Bryan Murchie 

Title: Understanding the Mechanisms of E-cigarette Aerosol-Induced Dentine Degradation: A Translational in Vitro Study 

Institution: Newcastle School of Dental Sciences 


For more information on the College’s partnership with the James Weir Foundation click here.