Zehra Azim

Zehra Azim is a DPhil student in Pharmacology under the supervision of Professor Daniel Anthony. Her research focuses on understanding the mechanisms of neuroinflammation following traumatic brain injury, with the aim of identifying novel therapeutic targets for intervention.

Zehra graduated with a BSc in Biomedical Sciences from Queen Mary University of London (2024) and an MSc in Integrated Immunology from the University of Oxford (2025). Her research experience spans multiple leading institutions: the William Harvey Research Institute, where she examined signalling pathways in polycystic kidney disease; UCL's Queen Square Institute of Neurology, studying protein dysfunction in neurodegenerative diseases; Imperial College London, analysing tumour-immune interactions in head and neck cancer; and Oxford's Nuffield Department of Medicine, investigating the role of microbial metabolites in inflammatory bowel disease. This breadth of experience reflects her wide-ranging scientific interests and commitment to interdisciplinary research.

Beyond the bench, Zehra has developed an interest in healthcare technology through her work with Tiny Medical Apps, where she contributed to the development of their flagship product, the Digital Health Passport. Zehra is deeply committed to public engagement and healthcare advocacy: she is a qualified Mental Health First Aider and has volunteered extensively with St John Ambulance and the NHS. She is also passionate about promoting diversity and amplifying underrepresented voices in STEM. Outside the lab, Zehra is an avid reader and enjoys creative writing.