The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh (RCSEd) is delighted to announce that Dr Steffi Yuen has been awarded the Hunter Doig Medal 2026, recognising her outstanding contribution to surgery, academic excellence and her commitment to advancing women in the profession.
The Hunter Doig Medal celebrates individuals who have demonstrated exceptional achievement while supporting and inspiring the progression of women in surgery. Dr Yuen's distinguished career, leadership in academic surgery and dedication to research made her an outstanding recipient of this year's award.
Dr Yuen is a consultant urological surgeon and internationally recognised academic based in Hong Kong. She has established an impressive reputation in urological research, innovation and surgical education, with a particular focus on improving outcomes for patients through high-quality clinical research and international collaboration.
In 2025, Dr Yuen became the inaugural Li Shu Fan International Professor at RCSEd, an appointment that saw her work closely with the College to promote surgical research, education and international engagement. Throughout her professorship, she championed collaborative research initiatives and contributed significantly to the College's academic activities, further strengthening links between the UK and Hong Kong surgical communities.
Speaking about the award, Dr Yuen said:
“Receiving the Hunter-Doig Medal is a deeply humbling milestone in my surgical career. I stand on the shoulders of my great mentors, and I dedicate this honour to every surgeon navigating this demanding path. My hope is that this recognition serves as more than a personal achievement-that it signals a clear message of welcome and possibility.
May it help broaden the road for the brilliant women who are yet to come, proving that in surgery, excellence has no gender. I accept this award not as a final destination, but as a platform to advocate for diversity and excellence in surgery. Let this be a sign that the future of our field is inclusive, and that talent and tenacity will always find their way.”
Miss Anna Paisley, Vice President of RCSEd and Chair of the College's Awards Sub-Committee, said:
"Dr Yuen truly embodies the ethos of the Hunter Doig Medal. She has excelled throughout her career as a surgeon, researcher and educator, while serving as an inspiring role model for women pursuing careers in surgery. We are delighted to recognise her achievements with this well-deserved award."
Miss Helene Stevenson, Hunter Doig Women in Surgery Group Chair said:
“On behalf of the Hunter Doig committee we are delighted to extend our congratulations to Dr Steffi Yuen on being awarded the Hunter Doig Medal 2026. This well deserved recognition reflects her outstanding dedication, leadership and exceptional contribution to advancing excellence in healthcare. A truly remarkable achievement.”
Urology SSB Chair, Alexander Laird said:
“Dr. Yuen is a leading academic urologist in endourology and technological advancement. She has promoted international collaboration, delivering cutting-edge research and educational activities that enhance patient care. Steffi is a deserving recipient of the Hunter Doig Medal, and the Urology community extends our heartfelt congratulations.”
The Hunter Doig Medal reflects RCSEd's ongoing commitment to recognising excellence and supporting greater diversity, inclusion and leadership across the surgical profession.
The College warmly congratulates Dr Yuen on this outstanding achievement and looks forward to formally presenting the medal at a future RCSEd Diploma Ceremony.