Azim Surani is a pioneering developmental biologist known for his work on mammalian pluripotency, germline development, and epigenetic reprogramming. He has made foundational contributions to our understanding of how cells in the early embryo acquire and lose the capacity to become different tissues, how germ cells (which lead to sperm and eggs) are specified, and how epigenetic marks are reset during development. His insights have shaped stem cell biology and regenerative medicine, and he has held leadership roles in leading research institutions, mentoring generations of scientists in the field.