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Jan. 5, 2026

Aberdeen medical academics recognised in New Year Honours

University of AberdeenA pioneering geneticist and a clinical chair in surgery at the University of Aberdeen have been recognised in the New Year's Honours.

Professor Zosia Miedzybrodzka (pictured above) is the Professor of Medical Genetics at the University of Aberdeen as well as being Service Clinical Director of Genetics at NHS Grampian and NHS Clinical Lead for Huntington’s Disease in North of Scotland. She has been appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE).

Professor Angus Watson is the Clinical Chair in Surgery at the University of Aberdeen and the Vice President of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh (RCSEd). Professor Watson has been awarded an OBE for his contributions to surgery and surgical research.

Speaking about these achievements, University Principal and Vice-Chancellor at the University of Aberdeen, Professor Peter Edwards, says, “These honours are a fitting tribute to the outstanding work and commitment to their respective fields as shown by Professor Miedzybrodzka and Professor Watson over many years.”

Professor Miedzybrodzka’s work ensures that advances in genetic research for rare diseases, cancer risk and inherited disorders translates into real diagnostic services and preventive screening for communities in Scotland – she has been recognised for services to genetics medicine and research. Speaking about being given an OBE, she says, “I’m so blown away and really moved to get this recognition for all the years I've been trying to just do my best for people with genetics conditions and realise now it’s been noticed,” Professor Miedzybrodzka continues. “Half my work is for the University doing research and teaching medical genetics and the other half is practicing as a doctor specialising in genetics but also leading an NHS team including labs, genetic doctors, nurses and admin staff.”

NHS Grampian Deputy Chief Executive June Brown applauds Professor Miedzybrodzka, saying, “Huge congratulations to Zosia whose contributions to patient care and research are outstanding. Her work will positively impact families for generations to come and we are extremely proud of all that she has and continues to achieve. Zosia leads a valued NHS service at the same time as contributing to ground-breaking discoveries in the field of genetics.”

Meanwhile, Professor Watson’s research focuses on colon capsule endoscopy (CCE), early detection of colorectal cancer and the use of AI to assist image interpretation. Professor Watson took on the role of Vice President at the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh in November 2025, after initially joining its Council in 2018. He also chairs RCSEd's Research Committee and Global Care Group and the NHS Scotland Colon Capsule (ScotCap) programme.

Commenting on his prestigious recognition, Professor Watson says, “I am honoured that the work we have done has been recognised. Delivering improved outcomes for patients and empowering the surgeons of the future is a team effort and I am grateful to all my collaborators and mentors who have helped me on this journey.”

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Content added on 5th January 2026.  

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