Zahira Mohammed

Academic qualifications

Business Analytics MSc, BEng, PGCAP

"Students come from a wide range of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, which creates a very dynamic learning environment. In many ways, it's a two-way process: I not only teach but learn from my students through their unique viewpoints and experiences."

I teach Data Analytics at HE level, and have expertise in data analysis, visualisation, ethical use of Data and AI, and stakeholder engagement.

I began my career as a software engineer, where I developed a strong technical foundation and a growing interest in how data can inform better business decisions. This led me to transition into data analytics, working as a business and data analyst across India, the UAE, and the UK. At organisations such as L&T Constructions and Bin Dirai and Partners, I analysed large datasets to improve project performance, reduce costs, and support strategic decision making.

These industry experiences highlighted the transformative power of data when used responsibly, which ultimately motivated my move into lecturing. My aim is to develop the next generation of data analysts who are not only technically skilled but also ethical and impact driven. I hold an MSc in Business Analytics from the University of Birmingham, for which I received an Overseas Scholarship, and graduated with distinction. This allows me to ground my teaching in current theory while drawing heavily on real world practice.

In my teaching at University College Birmingham, I regularly incorporate practical examples such as dashboard development, stakeholder collaboration, and handling imperfect data. This approach helps students build commercial awareness, problem solving skills, and effective communication abilities. I place strong emphasis on ethical data use and professional responsibility, equipping students with the mindset and skills needed to succeed as confident, capable data professionals.

In class, students often say they appreciate my friendly and approachable teaching style. I aim to create a comfortable learning environment where they feel confident asking questions and engaging with the subject without fear.

They also value the practical relevance of my classes. I focus on teaching skills and concepts that are directly applicable in the job market, ensuring that what they learn is not just theoretical, but something they can confidently use in real world roles. This combination of approachability and industry relevance seems to resonate well with students.

In addition to my teaching and industry experience, I am actively engaged in academic research, and I am contributing to publishing papers in the field of data analytics and data driven decision making. This allows me to stay current with emerging trends, methodologies, and best practices, which I bring directly into the classroom to enrich student learning.

I also continuously engage with real world projects, ensuring that my teaching remains relevant and aligned with current industry expectations. This combination of research and engagement enables me to provide students with up-to-date knowledge, and practical insights.

What inspires me most in my field is the ability to transform raw data into meaningful insights that influence decisions and shape the future, and I’m particularly motivated by how data and analytics can drive positive change in areas such as healthcare, research, and environmental sustainability, where informed decisions can improve lives and benefit future generations.

In my academic work, inspiration comes from the collaborative and supportive staff culture, and diversity of the student community at UCB. Students come from a wide range of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, which creates a very dynamic learning environment. In many ways, it is a two-way process; I not only teach but learn from my students through their unique viewpoints and experiences.

A common misconception I encounter is that data analytics is inherently difficult or only suitable for those with strong mathematical or technical backgrounds, and this stigma often intimidates students before they even begin. The reality is that data analytics is highly accessible. At its core, it’s about asking good questions, thinking critically, and telling stories with data. While technical skills matter, they can be built over time. My goal is to create a supportive learning environment where students feel comfortable exploring, making mistakes, and growing in confidence.

Outside work, I really enjoy cooking. I love experimenting with new recipes and then adding my own personal touch to them, it’s a creative process that I find both relaxing and rewarding, and I love to travel and try out popular or viral foods in different places. I also speak Hindi, Urdu, Kannada, and Malayalam.

In addition, I stay connected to my field by working on data projects in my own time. This helps me keep up with current trends and continuously develop my skills, which I can then bring back into my teaching.