Miguel Cunha is ESCP Communications Committee Chair. He is a consultant colorectal surgeon at the Champalimaud Foundation in Portugal.
Name: Miguel F. Cunha
Current position and hospital: Consultant Colorectal Surgeon, Champalimaud Foundation, Portugal
ESCP Executive position: Communications Committee Chair
Main clinical and research interests: Colorectal Cancer, sustainability in surgery, AI
Social media handles: X @MiguelCunhaSurg, Instagram @MiguelCunha86
What made you want to specialise in colorectal surgery?
Colorectal surgery is a challenging and highly specialised field that keeps us humble and deeply connected to our patients. For me, it’s this balance between technically demanding surgery and meaningful patient relationships that makes it so fascinating. That combination is what truly drew me in, and continues to motivate me every day.
What is the best part of the job?
The operating theatre, without a doubt. There’s something incredibly rewarding about turning a difficult case into a smooth, minimally invasive procedure. Beyond that, I really value the connection between clinical work and research; being able to translate new knowledge into better daily practice is one of the most fulfilling aspects of the job.
How long have you been involved in ESCP, and what made you want to become involved?
My journey with ESCP started in 2017, when I became a member after recognising the many opportunities the society offers for growth and collaboration.
In 2019, I was selected for the ESCP 6-month Minimally Invasive Surgery Fellowship at Hospital del Mar in Barcelona. During this time, I had the privilege of working with Dr Marta Pascual and the current ESCP President, Miguel Pera. An experience that had a profound impact on my technical training, academic development, and overall perspective as a colorectal surgeon.
That experience reinforced my belief in ESCP as a unique bridge between clinical practice and research. It is a global, inclusive, and forward-thinking community where you can truly grow, connect, and collaborate with some of the best minds in the field. That is what continues to drive my involvement today.
What do you value most about being involved in ESCP?
The people and the opportunities. ESCP offers an incredible environment for networking, learning, and growth. If you’re a colorectal surgeon striving to improve every day, this is the place that will keep you motivated and inspired.
Tell us your best ESCP conference anecdote?
Come to the next ESCP conference, and I’ll tell you in person!
What would your one bit of advice for younger surgeons starting their career in colorectal surgery be?
Colorectal surgery is demanding, but incredibly rewarding. Stay curious, work hard, and keep pushing forward; effort always pays off.