Now Dean of the Clinical Dentistry School at the University of Sheffield, Professor Khurram’s journey is a testament to resilience, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to advancing clinical academia, dentistry and pathology.
Ali’s story began in Pakistan, where he graduated in 2001 before moving to the UK to pursue a master’s in Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology from the University of London. A scholarship from the University of Sheffield brought him north, where he completed his PhD in the same field in 2008. This marked the start of a career that combined academia, research, and clinical practice.
Following his PhD, Ali gained invaluable experience in hospitals across Cardiff and Sheffield, working as a junior doctor in maxillofacial surgery, medicine and pathology. In 2011, he returned to academia as an NIHR Academic Clinical Lecturer at the University of Sheffield, juggling postdoctoral research, clinical diagnostic training, and teaching. By 2016, he had achieved his Fellowship of the Royal College of Pathologists and was appointed Senior Clinical Lecturer and Honorary Consultant Pathologist. His passion for patient engagement and improving outcomes in head and neck cancers fuelled his research work, culminating in the launch of his research group, NEOPATH. This was then followed by promotion to a Professorship in 2022.
Ali is recognised as one of the leading head and neck/oral pathologists in the world and has made significant contributions to training, education and research at regional, national and international levels and to numerous learned societies and organisations. He is also a vocal patient advocate working closely with numerous charities and is a Trustee for the Swallows Head and Neck Cancer charity.
In 2024, after a competitive process, Ali was appointed as the Dean of the School of Clinical Dentistry —a role that allows him to shape the future of a field he has dedicated his life to advancing.
Ali said: “This new role presents an opportunity to work closer with the Faculty of Health, the wider University and other stakeholders to establish the Dental School as a leader in the field.”
Ali is especially passionate about creating a culture of research excellence. He believes research is the backbone of effective teaching and innovative treatment. “Research informs future treatments and decisions, and it’s essential for our teaching to be evidence-based,” he explains.
This commitment is particularly vital in the fight against head and neck cancers, a cause close to Ali’s heart. Despite being a relatively neglected area of research compared to other cancers, head and neck cancers carry devastating consequences, with poor survival rates and quality of life. “It’s not just about survival—it’s about survival with quality of life including speech, diet, swallowing, and overall well-being. The impact is profound,” he notes.
Under his leadership, Ali hopes to advance the School’s research and educational achievements, involve patients in education and inspire the next generation of dental researchers and clinicians.
“I feel very proud and humbled to be the Dean. To come here as a PhD student and 20 years later lead the Clinical Dentistry School shows that the University of Sheffield is a place where anyone has the opportunity to grow and become a leader.”
Ali Khurram, Dean of the School of Clinical Dentistry
A recent photo at a Staff Away Day served as a poignant reminder of his journey. “In 2008, I was standing in the back row of a departmental photo as a junior doctor. Now I’m in the front row entrusted with leading this incredible group of people—it was a watershed moment.”
As Dean, Ali is determined to create an environment where every student and staff member feels valued and empowered. “I want people to feel proud to be part of this school and university, to know their voices matter, and to believe they can contribute to the future in meaningful ways,” he says.
Ali Khurram’s story is a powerful reminder that perseverance and passion can open doors to opportunities you may never expect. His journey is proof that no matter where you start, you can leave a lasting impact in your field—and inspire others to do the same.