Biography
Sahar Khonsari is a nursing lecturer at the School of Health and Social Care, Edinburgh Napier University. She completed her PhD in nursing studies from the University of Edinburgh in 2018, focusing on developing and evaluating a mobile health intervention using the Medical Research Council (MRC) framework to enhance cardiovascular medication adherence. Working as a post-doctoral researcher at Edinburgh Napier University (2018-2020) and the University of Glasgow (2021-2023), Sahar utilised diverse research methods, including systematic reviews, mixed-methods, surveys, qualitative focus groups, randomised controlled trials (RCTs), and participatory action research.
Sahar's research interests include co-designing and evaluating innovative interventions using new technology to enhance chronic condition management, especially cardiovascular disease, and exploring ways to improve patient experience across different healthcare settings. In her recent post-doctoral role at the University of Glasgow, Sahar was engaged in participatory action research, investigating end-of-life care perspectives among terminally ill patients, bereaved relatives, and both clinical and non-clinical staff in acute hospital settings. Additionally, within the Cardiovascular Health Theme at Edinburgh Napier University, she contributed as a co-investigator and researcher to a CSO-funded feasibility mixed-methods study, aiming to enhance medication adherence among atrial fibrillation patients through a collaboratively designed mHealth intervention. Sahar's contributions have resulted in publications from both her doctoral and post-doctoral works in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals (accessible via: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3342-7572).
Before her postgraduate studies, Sahar worked as a registered nurse for several years in the cardiac rehabilitation department at a tertiary hospital affiliated with Tehran University of Medical Sciences in Tehran, Iran.
Sahar is a registered nurse with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC). Additionally, she holds the status of an Associate Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (HEA).