Mimoun Azzouz

Mimoun Azzouz: Research Without Borders

Originally from Nador, Mimoun Azzouz is recognised as one of the leading figures in the field of gene therapy and was this year awarded the prestigious Outstanding Achievement Award in the United Kingdom. Professor of Translational Neuroscience at the University of Sheffield and Director of the Gene Therapy Innovation and Manufacturing Centre (GTIMC), he is also a scientific entrepreneur, co-founder of BlackfinBio and Crucible Therapeutics, and coordinator of a €25.5 million European consortium dedicated to advanced therapies.

What was the defining moment in your career?

The real turning point came when I encountered neurodegenerative diseases. At the time, children affected by spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) generally died before the age of two, and no treatment existed. We had to find solutions. Today, one of the therapeutic strategies developed in our laboratory has enabled children treated since 2017 to survive. That is an immense source of satisfaction.

How do you view the potential of research in Morocco today?

When I left Morocco to pursue my studies in Marseille in 1993, neuroscience research was still very limited in Morocco. Today, universities and both public and private healthcare institutions are able to carry out research projects of the highest standard, supported by the public authorities.

What role can Moroccans living abroad play in the Kingdom’s development?

They are an extraordinary asset to the country. Beyond financial investment, they bring experience, expertise, international networks and the ability to build bridges. Some choose to return to Morocco, while others contribute from abroad by sharing their expertise with universities, businesses and innovative sectors. Deeply attached to the Kingdom, I return regularly to be with my family and to take part in academic projects. Through programmes run by the International Brain Research Organization (IBRO), I am particularly involved in training young researchers. Passing on knowledge is an integral part of my commitment.

What is the next challenge you have set yourself?

Launching new clinical trials in gene therapy remains a priority. But I also have a dream: to help establish in Morocco an innovation centre comparable to the one we have built in the United Kingdom, so that this experience may serve the Kingdom’s scientific development.