Women in Medicine and Sciences Feature: Anjail Sharrief, MD, MPH
Each month, the Women Faculty Forum presents its Women in Medicine and Sciences Feature, highlighting the women faculty at McGovern Medical School who are leaders in medicine, research, and education.
This month’s feature is Anjail Sharrief, MD, MPH, associate professor in the Department of Neurology.
What is your background? When did you join UTHealth Houston?
I was born in Inkster, Mich., and raised between Michigan and Atlanta. I went to Smith College, then two years at NIH, then Columbia University for Medical School, and Johns Hopkins for residency (neurology). I was chief resident my last year. I did an MPH after residency at Hopkins before coming to UTHealth Houston. I started at UTHealth Houston in 2013 and was recruited to start the Stroke Transitions, Education, and Prevention (STEP) Clinical Program that I founded and direct.
What inspired you to pursue a career in science?
My mother is a nurse, and my interest in medicine was inspired by her. I have been engaged in research since high school, inspired by my dad’s love for continuous learning.
Who are your role models?
My mother who is a nurse and community activist in Mississippi, and at the age of 75 continues to be an advocate for justice. Also, my father, who understood the importance of education and environment for increasing opportunities in life. He made sure my eight sibling and I had access to great education. He passed at a young age from a massive heart attack, but inspires my passion for heart disease and stroke prevention and addressing social determinants of health to change health outcomes.
What do you enjoy most about working at UTHealth Houston?
My colleagues and ability to collaborate across UTHealth Houston institutions.
How do you think UTHealth Houston can further support female faculty?
Provide more support for families and mothers – childcare resources; more mothering rooms and spaces; flexibility for clinic scheduling and work schedules; paid leave.
If you would like to nominate a faculty member for the Women in Medicine and Sciences Feature, click here.