Azra Sharif-Qayyum

Azra is a HCPC state registered Specialist biomedical scientist in the Department of Medical Microbiology. Over 27 years in the department, Azra has gained a BSc in Life Sciences from Napier Polytechnic, a PgDip in Biomedical Sciences from Glasgow Caledonian University and a MSc in Forensic Medicine from Edinburgh University. Actively involved in the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS), Azra acts as a local CPD officer for the Lothian and Borders region and represents her IBMS branch on the Scottish Committee. ​

As a founding member of Edinburgh Mela, an arts organisation that produces a large multi-cultural festival every year as part of the Edinburgh Festival, Azra has previously acted as vice chair (for several years) and as the chair of its Personnel Committee. This voluntary role has provided Azra with a background in fundraising, events management and experience of cultivating partnerships within the wider community.

More recently, Azra took up the role of convenor of the Education Committee at Edinburgh and Lothian Regional Equality Council (ELREC). This role has led to Azra serving on the Border Equality Consultation Group and becoming involved in various equality issues regarding border security.​