Our Research Centre
The Primary Care Research Hub is a leading centre for applied clinical research embedded within general practice.Our work is rooted in community engagement, patient-first initiatives and translating research into practical innovations that benefit patients, clinicians, and health systems.
Under the leadership of Professor Azhar Zafar, an internationally recognised expert in diabetes and cardiometabolic medicine, the Hub brings together clinicians, researchers, and educators to address pressing health challenges through collaboration and evidence-based solutions.
Our team conducts a wide range of studies, including academic and commercial NIHR portfolio research, alongside locally driven innovation projects designed to respond to real-world needs in primary care.
We are also committed to developing research capacity across the workforce, supporting the training and mentorship of academic GPs, primary care researchers, and the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Our Team
Professor Azhar Zafar
Research Lead
Carina Scarlata
Research Manager
Aanish Shafique
Research Admin
Jessie King
Research Nurse
Bisma Madni
Data Officer
Our Partners
We are pleased to share that our team is actively supporting and collaborating with GP practices that form part of the Primary Care Research Hub at Danes Camp Medical Centre, led by Professor Azhar Zafar.
The Primary Care Research Hub represents a consortium of GP practices across Northamptonshire, collectively serving over 175,000 patients. Together, we are committed to advancing healthcare through high-quality, patient-centred research in key areas such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obesity, mental health, and digital innovation in care.
We collaborate in research with the following practices:
Rillwood Medical Centre
The Parks Medical Practice
Favell Plus Surgery
Maple Access Partnership
Queensview Medical Centre
The Mounts Medical Centre
Mayfield Surgery
Kind Edward Road Surgery
Albany House Medical Centre
Wotton Medical Centre
Saxon Spires
Green Norton and Wooton
Through this collaboration, we aim to make primary care the beating heart of research and innovation, ensuring that patients benefit directly from the latest clinical studies and evidence-based advancements.
See our open research studies on our Current Studies page and learn how we’re shaping the future of healthcare through research.