We recently spoke to Dr. Negar Yousef Zadeh, Research Associate at the NIHR Innovation Observatory and Newcastle University Population Health Sciences Institute (PHSI), and Postdoctoral Fellow in Policy at Newcastle University.
Describe your role in the team?
As a Research Associate within the NIHR Innovation Observatory, my primary responsibility is tracking innovative health technologies in development within the remit of the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). I help identify new medicines and technologies poised to enter the UK market within the next three years.
My research covers all age groups, but I have a particular focus on the challenges of ageing, including comorbidities and the unique health needs of the elderly. My work also delves into disease diagnosis, prognosis, and strategies to improve health equity by leveraging socio-technical infrastructures. This includes exploring socio-economic disparities, accessibility, affordability, and other factors influencing public health outcomes, and health economics.
How did you get into this career, what led you here?
My journey into this career has been both long and rewarding. I hold a bachelor’s degree in hospital management, a master’s in health and care management, and a PhD in health policy. Most recently, I was thrilled to have my fellowship application in policy studies at Newcastle University approved.
Throughout my academic journey, I have consistently aimed to integrate medical concepts with broader political, economic, societal, environmental, and legal perspectives. This holistic approach has allowed me to explore innovative solutions for promoting health equity.
My professional experience spans various roles, including working as a researcher in diverse institutes and teaching courses in underserved communities in Iran. I’ve also translated key health economics and policy resources into other languages to make these valuable materials accessible to lower- and middle-income countries.
Additionally, I am an active peer reviewer for BMC journals and a member of Cochrane, where I contribute to the global evidence base for healthcare improvement. These experiences have deepened my understanding of how research can guide cost-effective, high-impact healthcare delivery.
Two years ago, I discovered the NIHR Innovation Observatory and its mission, vision, and partnerships with stakeholders like NICE. I felt a deep connection to their work and applied for a position. Fortunately, I was offered the role, and I am now proud to contribute to this incredible team.
What do you enjoy most about your role? What are you most proud of?
What I enjoy most about my role is being part of a dynamic, collaborative team that fosters innovation and meaningful impact. Together, we develop projects that inform healthcare decision-making and policy both nationally and internationally.
Our foresight and horizon-scanning projects are critical in equipping stakeholders like NICE and NHS England with the insights they need to improve patient care and service delivery. I also take pride in the global reach of our publications, which help guide health decision-makers worldwide.
One of my proudest achievements was being an organising member of the “Futures, Foresight, and Horizon Scanning” event. Through this initiative, we successfully disseminated vital information about these concepts and their transformative potential for global health systems. Seeing the positive reception from diverse audiences reaffirmed the importance of this work.
What do you do outside of work?
Outside of work, I enjoy expressing myself through music. I play the piano, both solo and in group performances, and sing traditional Persian songs with a group that shares my passion for exploring the lesser-known aspects of international classical art.
Recently, I’ve also begun writing short stories for children, using enchanting narratives to introduce them to physical and mental health concepts in a simple, engaging way.
Cooking is another passion of mine—it’s my safe space to unwind and reset my mind. Whether experimenting with new recipes or preparing a favourite dish, I find it both creative and therapeutic.
To get to know more of our team, take a look at our news page for more ‘In the Spotlight’ interviews here
