During the Second World War, Sir Archibald McIndoe advanced the field of reconstructive surgery through his treatment of severely burned RAF airmen at Queen Victoria Hospital in East Grinstead. While his surgical innovations are well documented, his contribution to the development of peer support in trauma recovery is equally significant.

Survival rates following severe burns and complex injuries have improved dramatically over recent decades. Today, the focus of care has shifted. For many patients, the greatest challenges lie not only in closing a wound, but in how well it heals — including function, scarring, infection risk, and long-term quality of life.

Applications for the Blond McIndoe Research Foundation One-Year Research Fellowship are now being accepted, with the deadline for submissions approaching on 25 February 2026. This Fellowship offers a valuable opportunity for early-career clinicians and researchers to undertake a dedicated year of research focused on wound healing, burns care and soft tissue reconstruction.