A group of talented students from The University of the West Indies (UWI) recently participated in an inspiring eight-week summer school programme focused on surgical robotics at the University of Leeds.
This unique initiative, known as the CariSurg summer surgical robotics research programme, marked the first-ever exchange opportunity for Caribbean students aimed at advancing their research capabilities in this cutting-edge field.
During their time in the STORM Lab at Leeds, the students engaged in a variety of projects, including the enhancement of AI tools for the da Vinci surgical robot, the design of magnetic vines for endoscopic procedures, and the development of affordable cancer screening technology.
The CariSurg programme was initiated by Saint Lucian Dr. Nikita Greenidge, a surgical robotics researcher in the STORM Lab, with support from Emergent Ventures.
Dr. Greenidge highlighted the significant potential for Caribbean talent in the realm of healthcare innovation.
“I started CariSurg because I know how much talent exists in the Caribbean, even though opportunities in research are often limited. My dream is for the region to become a leader in healthcare innovation, and this first cohort has shown what’s possible ambitious students from across the Caribbean, eager to create solutions that matter both locally and globally. They were a pleasure to host.”
