Dr. Syed qualified from Guys Hospital London with her Bachelor in Dental Surgery in 1992. She then spent some time in a general dental practice. She obtained her specialty training with distinction at the Royal London Hospital after which she stayed on, both working and teaching. She was lead clinical researcher in a three-year treatment study investigating risk factors in patients with aggressive periodontitis. She was clinical lead in mucogingival surgery and this involved training both senior and junior staff.

Dr Syed has presented her research both in the UK and in Europe. She has lived in Perth for the past 7 years and has been actively involved in CPD and teaching. She now works in private periodontal practice and is involved with the implant teaching at UWA.