Ara Darzi, Baron Darzi of Denham

Ara Warkes Darzi, Baron Darzi of Denham (born 7 May 1960) is a prominent surgeon, academic, and politician known for his contributions to the field of minimally invasive surgery and healthcare policy. He holds the Paul Hamlyn Chair of Surgery at Imperial College London and is an Honorary Consultant Surgeon at Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust.

Early life and education

Ara Darzi was born in Baghdad, Iraq, to Armenian parents. He moved to Ireland to pursue his medical education, attending the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland where he obtained his medical degree. Darzi furthered his training in surgery in the United Kingdom, specializing in laparoscopic surgery.

Medical career

Official portrait of Lord Darzi of Denham

Darzi is renowned for his pioneering work in the field of minimally invasive surgery. He has developed numerous techniques and technologies that have advanced the practice of surgery, making procedures less invasive and recovery times shorter for patients. His research has focused on improving surgical outcomes and patient safety.

At Imperial College London, Darzi leads a team of researchers at the Institute of Global Health Innovation, where he works on innovations in healthcare delivery and medical technology. He has published extensively in the field of surgery and healthcare policy.

Political career

In 2007, Darzi was appointed as a Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the Department of Health and Social Care in the United Kingdom. During his tenure, he authored the "NHS Next Stage Review" which outlined a vision for the future of the National Health Service (NHS) focusing on quality of care, patient safety, and innovation.

In 2009, he was made a life peer as Baron Darzi of Denham, of Denham in the County of Buckinghamshire, and took his seat in the House of Lords. He continues to influence healthcare policy and advocates for improvements in the NHS and global health systems.

Honours and awards

Baron Darzi has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to medicine and healthcare. He was knighted in 2002 for his services to medicine and surgery. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society, the Academy of Medical Sciences, and the Royal College of Surgeons.

Personal life

Darzi is married and has two children. He is known for his dedication to both his professional work and his family. Outside of his professional commitments, he enjoys classical music and art.

Related pages

• Minimally invasive surgery
• Imperial College London
• National Health Service
• House of Lords