Dr. Naveed Akbar

Biography

I obtained my BSc (Hons) in Human Biology and completed my MSc research in Biomedical Sciences, developing an interest in vascular biology and undertaking interdisciplinary training to synthesize and fabricate nanoparticles for vascular targeting. I went on to obtain my PhD in Medicine and Therapeutics from the University of Dundee, where I investigated the role of innate immune signaling cascades in vascular inflammation using in vivo imaging techniques. As a British Heart Foundation Intermediate Basic Science Research Fellow, my lab investigates the role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in cardiovascular and metabolic inflammation. These nano-sized bubble-shaped envelopes transcribe, package, and deliver messages to cells, containing potent instructions that alter the behavior and biological function of their recipients, including motile immune cells. My research aims to uncover the mechanisms by which these shielded messages provoke immune system action during heart attacks, which directly contributes to further injury and impacts patient health and well-being. Additionally, I have engaged in public outreach through Pint of Science, aiming to encourage communication of the latest research in an engaging way to the public and bringing scientists to local pubs to share their work.

Research Interests

Experience