An evening with the RSM Coloproctology Section: John of Arderne Prize and Presidential Address

Join us for the prestigious John of Arderne Prize, where surgical resident doctors will present their latest colorectal research, showcasing emerging evidence and innovations in the field. This meeting offers an excellent opportunity to enhance your knowledge of the latest developments and advances in coloproctology, while recognising outstanding academic achievement among the next generation of colorectal surgeons.

The prize meeting will be followed by the annual Presidential Address, 'The Spice of Life' delivered by the Royal Society of Medicine (RSM) Coloproctology Section President 2026-27, Mr Michael Powar, Consultant Colorectal Surgeon, Cambridge University Hospitals. 

Please note that the Coloproctology Section Annual General Meeting (AGM) will take place during the evening, with attendance open to section members.

John of Arderne Prize

This award is made annually to recipients selected by the Council of the Coloproctology Section for the best research paper presented at this event. Shortlisted candidates will be asked to prepare an eight-minute presentation followed by two minutes of questions and answers. 

Deadline: Monday 9 August 2026

Open to: Resident doctors in coloproctology/surgery

Prize: The John of Arderne Medal, a Travelling Fellowship of £500 to the following year's overseas meeting in June 2027, and a position on the RSM Coloproctology Council. All shortlisted candidates will receive one-year free membership of the RSM with associated benefits. The prize winner is required to attend the overseas meeting in order to be able to claim the £500.

Apply here

Why attend?

• Gain valuable insights into the latest developments in coloproctology as surgical resident doctors present their research papers
• Listen to the Presidential Address delivered by Mr Michael Powar, President of the RSM Coloproctology Section and Consultant Colorectal Surgeon at Cambridge University Hospitals
• Connect with fellow surgeons, resident doctors, researchers and healthcare professionals with a shared interest in coloproctology
• Join colleagues at the black tie Presidential Dinner, a highlight of the meeting that offers a unique opportunity to engage with peers and senior leaders in coloproctology in a relaxed environment.

Aims:

• To provide a practical overview of distinction in high-quality colorectal research and a platform to share findings
• To celebrate leadership and professional excellence within the coloproctology community through the Presidential Address and prize ceremony
• To support collaboration within the colorectal community through exchanged knowledge.

Learning outcomes:

• Describe recent advances and emerging developments in colorectal surgery and coloproctology
• Recognise key insights and perspectives shared during the Presidential Address and their relevance to current surgical practice
• Identify upcoming educational and professional development opportunities within the forthcoming programme of meetings.

Who should attend?

• Colorectal surgeons and consultants
• Colorectal resident doctors
• Medical students
• Allied health professionals and researchers with an interest in colorectal surgery.

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