How Oxford’s MSc in Precision Cancer Medicine Transformed My Professional Practice

The Department of Oncology offers a range of graduate programmes aimed at fostering the next generation of experts in cancer research and treatment. The MSc in Precision Cancer Medicine course attracts clinicians, scientists, and industry professionals from around the world who are eager to deepen their expertise in this fast-evolving field. Delivered by renowned thought leaders, the course explores cancer genomics and pathology, diagnostics, experimental therapeutics, onco-immunology, bioinformatics, ethics and health economics.

Sudha Surisetti, a senior anatomic and molecular pathologist from India, discusses her experience on the programme. Sudha shares what drew her to Oxford, how the course has shaped her practice, and why she recommends it to others working at the forefront of cancer medicine.

Can you tell us about your background? 

I am a senior anatomic and molecular pathologist and have been practising in the oncology space in India for the last 26 years. I am an academician and have headed the Division of Laboratory Medicine at a tertiary care cancer hospital. Apart from directing high-end molecular oncology labs, I have mentored postgraduates in pathology and directed accredited labs offering fellowships in oncopathology. I am a speaker and researcher with over 87 publications in peer-reviewed national and international journals. I currently serve as a mentor in tHub, which is the start-up ecosystem of Telangana State in India in the healthtech space. I am also an alum of the Indian School of Business, where I did my MBA in healthcare.

What attracted you to the MSc in Precision Cancer Medicine? 

As a pathologist with extensive experience in oncopathology, I have always had a deep desire to understand precision cancer medicine as a holistic science. As both a teacher and a researcher, I have been eager to contribute to and learn from this evolving and niche field. Precision cancer medicine sits at the crossroads of molecular biology, oncology, technology, and healthcare policy. I sought courses that offered a truly holistic perspective, including the critical role of healthcare policy and its foundations. 

What attracted me to the MSc in Precision Cancer Medicine at the University of Oxford was the faculty’s pioneering work in translational oncology—particularly by Prof. Anna Schuh and her distinguished colleagues. Of course, the icing on the cake was the chance to collaborate with a vibrant and dynamic international peer group within the classroom. Joining this program was a natural progression, allowing me to realize my aspiration of learning from the very best in the field.

What have you enjoyed most about the course?

What I enjoyed was the intellectual diversity and international perspective fostered by the program. Collaborative learning with peers from different healthcare systems and specialties expanded my horizons. It helped me  contextualize my own understanding of cancer medicine with a  global peer group from candidates coming from different levels of maturity (I was the senior most). The curriculum offered an elegant mix of the latest in molecular oncology, clinical trial design, artificial intelligence, immuno-oncology and healthcare policy.  

My greatest takeaway was understanding the wide scope of precision cancer. The assignments  taught me exceptional approaches to research, and have raised the standard of my academic and professional practice.

"Promise yourself to approach the course with curiosity, humility, and an open mind, Prepare to both unlearn and learn afresh."

What has it been like to study a part-time, remote course at Oxford? 

Balancing rigorous academic study with professional commitments was both challenging and  rewarding. The flexibility of the part-time, remote format allowed me to continue leading molecular oncology initiatives back home in India and advocate for quality systems in laboratory medicine and oncopathology. Oxford’s robust digital learning platform, the content regular interactive seminars, and encouraging faculty ensured that we never felt far away from the university. The experience has reinforced discipline and time management skills, teaching me that meaningful collaboration can truly transcend age and geographical boundaries. 

How has the MSc in Precision Cancer Medicine help your career? 

The MSc in Precision Cancer Medicine has completely transformed me and broadened my horizons within the discipline. I now approach the science through a new lens, moving beyond my earlier perspective as a pathologist. I am now able to incorporate immuno-oncology, genomics, transcriptomics, policy, and morphology in my practice. Further, a perspective on artificial intelligence can now enhance my practice and has significantly sharpened my skill set. 

 I am confident that I can now lead assignments and engage in international collaborations with greater maturity, thanks to my comprehensive understanding of how pathology, precision cancer medicine, and healthcare management intertwine—an intersection that is crucial for today’s experts at the forefront of clinical practice and research. The program and international network, have positioned me as a regional leader in precision oncology with practices which align with global best practices I am now confident and geared up to mentor the next generation of doctors and scientists in this important field. 

Would you recommend the course?

Absolutely. This course is ideal for clinicians, laboratory specialists, scientists, and healthcare leaders who aspire to drive change in the rapidly evolving field of precision oncology. Especially for those committed to blending their clinical expertise with sophisticated understanding of molecular oncology. The program truly offers academic depth, practical insights, and international networking opportunities. It is especially rewarding for professionals seeking to champion precision medicine within their local contexts while remaining globally connected. 

"Be prepared to be inspired as you work alongside exemplary healthcare leaders who will help shape you into a passionate advocate for personalized cancer care."

Beyond cutting-edge academic training, the MSc in Precision Cancer Medicine provides a global community, real-world insights, and the tools to lead in an ever-changing healthcare landscape. As a senior professional, studying the course alongside a diverse cohort armed Sudha with practice-changing insights into precision cancer medicine as a holistic science.