Caribbean Students Pioneer Surgical Robotics Research at University of Leeds
A select group of students from the University of the West Indies (UWI) recently completed an intensive eight-week summer internship focused on surgical robotics at the University of Leeds. This groundbreaking CariSurg Robotics Internship Programme marked the first initiative tailored specifically for Caribbean students eager to advance their expertise in this cutting-edge medical technology field.
Launching CariSurg: Empowering Caribbean Innovation in Healthcare
Dr. Nikita Greenidge, a leading researcher in surgical robotics affiliated with the STORM Lab and Emergent Ventures, founded the CariSurg programme to bridge the gap between Caribbean talent and global research opportunities. She highlighted the untapped potential within the region:
“I established CariSurg because I recognize the abundant talent in the Caribbean, despite the scarcity of research opportunities. My vision is for the Caribbean to emerge as a frontrunner in healthcare innovation. This inaugural group of students has demonstrated immense promise-ambitious individuals from across the Caribbean, driven to develop solutions that address both local and international health challenges. Hosting them has been an absolute privilege.”
Hands-On Experience in Advanced Surgical Robotics
During their placement at the Science and Technologies of Robotics in Medicine (STORM) Lab at Leeds, participants engaged in diverse projects. These included refining artificial intelligence algorithms for the da Vinci surgical system, engineering magnetic tether devices for minimally invasive endoscopic surgeries, and creating cost-effective cancer screening tools. Under the mentorship of Professor Pietro Valdastri from Leeds and Dr. Carl Beckford from UWI’s Department of Computing, the students crafted innovative engineering and medical solutions tailored to pressing Caribbean healthcare issues.
Voices from the Internship: Inspiration and Future Aspirations
Abishua Johnson, a recent Computer Science graduate from UWI Mona, reflected on the transformative experience: “This internship has inspired me to pursue research seriously. Interacting with the minds behind these projects made me realize the impact I could have by bringing this knowledge back home.”
Samiya Allen, a final-year Computer Science and Electronics student at UWI Cave Hill, shared her newfound passion: “Before this, I hadn’t considered a career intersecting medicine and technology. Now, I’m eager to contribute to research that benefits the Caribbean. I want to motivate others in the region to realize our capacity for impactful innovation.”
Justin Sooknanan, soon to graduate with a BSc in Electrical and Computer Engineering from UWI St Augustine, emphasized the importance of sustaining momentum: “Programs like CariSurg are vital for fostering research culture. I’m committed to helping expand this initiative so more students can access these opportunities. Together, we can elevate Caribbean research to new heights.”
Institutional Support and Regional Impact
Dr. Daniel T. Fokum, Head of the Department of Computing at UWI Mona, expressed enthusiasm about the programme’s potential: “We are proud that our students participated in this pioneering internship. The skills they acquired will enhance technical expertise and ultimately improve surgical practices throughout the Caribbean.”
Real-World Exposure: Witnessing Robotic Surgery in Action
A highlight of the internship was observing a live robotic-assisted prostatectomy performed by Dr. Jonathan Noël, a Barbadian urologist and UWI alumnus, at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust in London. Samiya Allen described the experience as “deeply motivating to see someone from a similar background excel in this advanced field.”
Dr. Noël remarked, “It’s a privilege to mentor students from my alma mater and share insights about robotic surgery. Their dedication and passion for Caribbean development are truly inspiring.”
Engaging Leadership: Presenting Innovations to Regional Diplomats
Upon completing their projects, the students showcased their research and shared their vision for transforming Caribbean healthcare with Anthony B. Severin, High Commissioner for St Lucia in the UK. Severin emphasized the critical role of nurturing homegrown talent and aligning innovation with regional needs:
“Immersing our young scholars in world-class research environments accelerates their growth and readiness to address Caribbean challenges. Their enthusiasm and commitment give us confidence that the Caribbean will become a leader in medical technology innovation. It is essential to continue building pathways that enable their success.”
Looking Ahead: Sustaining Growth and Collaboration
Dr. Greenidge envisions CariSurg as a catalyst for enduring partnerships that facilitate knowledge exchange, resource sharing, and support for local research initiatives across the Caribbean. By fostering these connections, the programme aims to create a sustainable ecosystem for healthcare innovation in the region.
