Roger Kneebone is a leading authority on surgical education and interdisciplinary expertise. With a background spanning trauma surgery, general practice, and medical education, he brings a unique perspective on how knowledge is acquired and applied across different fields. His research explores the intersection of medicine, craftsmanship, and performance, drawing insights from a wide range of disciplines to enhance professional training and skill development.
After qualifying in medicine from St Andrews and Manchester universities, Roger spent years performing trauma surgery in Southern Africa before returning to the UK to practise as a general practitioner. He later transitioned into academia, becoming Professor of Surgical Education and Engagement Science at Imperial College London. He co-founded the UK’s only Masters programme in Surgical Education and leads research initiatives at the Centre for Engagement and Simulation Science and the Centre for Performance Science. His work in simulation-based learning has reshaped medical training, enabling safer and more effective skill acquisition.
Beyond medicine, Roger collaborates with artists, musicians, and craftspeople to explore parallels between their expertise and professional mastery. He is the author of "Expert: Understanding the Path to Mastery," which examines the journey to high-level competence across different domains. He also hosts the "Countercurrent" podcast, where he engages in conversations with individuals whose careers transcend conventional boundaries.
Recognised for his contributions to education and engagement, Roger was named the first Honorary Fellow of the City & Guilds London Art School and was appointed the 14th Professor of Anatomy at the Royal Academy of Arts. He is also a member of the Art Workers' Guild and directs the SHARP project, which uses simulation and the arts to address knife violence among young people. His work continues to challenge traditional approaches to expertise, fostering greater understanding between disciplines and professions.
Roger Kneebone explores the journey to expertise, challenging common assumptions about what it takes to become highly skilled. Drawing on insights from medicine, the arts, and craftsmanship, he reveals the shared principles that underpin mastery across different fields. He examines the importance of deliberate practice, mentorship, and failure in the development of expertise, offering a fresh perspective on how individuals can refine their skills and build confidence in their abilities.
Roger Kneebone delves into the power of interdisciplinary collaboration and its role in innovation and problem-solving. By drawing parallels between surgeons, musicians, craftspeople, and other experts, he highlights how skills and insights transfer across disciplines. He demonstrates how engaging with different fields enhances creativity and adaptability, equipping individuals and organisations with new ways of thinking. His approach challenges conventional silos, encouraging fresh perspectives and a more connected approach to learning and professional development.
