London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine

Current job title and organisation

Prof of Viral Pathology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, UAE University, United Arab Emirates.

Can you please tell us a bit about your current work/research?

My primary research interest is in viral pathology of infectious diseases, in particular, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and its associated diseases. My secondary interest is in emerging viral infections and public health. I have over 120 publications in peer review journals, 1 book and 10 book chapters. My publication statistics (as of Jan 2024) are: total citations >50,000; h-index 53, i10-index 90. I’ve been included in Stanford’s list of top 2% scientists for the last 3 years. 

What course and year did you study at LSHTM?

MSc Medical Microbiology (1989).

Why did you choose to study with LSHTM?

I have always been interested in infectious diseases, particularly viral infections. I did my undergraduate in London and I was very familiar with LSHTM as being one of the leading institutions for studying infectious diseases.

Did you have to overcome any challenges to study with us?

Financially it was challenging. London in an expensive city to live in.

Did you receive a scholarship or any financial support from the school to assist you with your studies? (optional)

No, I did not. Fortunately, I was a home student and as such, my fees were minimum, which I could afford.

What were your favourite memories from your studies with us?

World leading researchers who were very inspiring. Prof Bo Drasar, Prof Colin Howard, Prof Zuckerman, Prof Roitt, to mention but a few. 

How has your LSHTM degree helped you in your career?

It allowed me to pursue a PhD (at St Bart’s), followed by postdoctoral work in Boston and Glasgow, before taking faculty positions in UK, and later here in UAE. 

What would you like to achieve in future?

I'm very grateful for all the opportunities I’ve had. I have been blessed with many successes and awards. I would like to continue with my teaching, cutting edge research and training graduate students. 

Do you have any advice for students/recent graduates?

Strive to achieve your goals. Never be afraid of challenges and obstacles that may arise in achieving your dreams.  

Do you have any social handles (Twitter/Facebook Usernames) you would like us to use?

Twitter: @Dr_Gulfaraz

LinkedIn: Gulfaraz khan PhD, FRCPath