Fáilte is fiche go dtí eagrán an gheimhridh d’Iris Alumni Ollscoil na Gaillimhe, Cois Coiribe.
Welcome to this edition of Cois Coiribe, centered on the theme “Innovate Together”, which celebrates our University’s vibrant ecosystem of research, education, and innovation, particularly in the MedTech and healthcare sectors. University of Galway continues to pioneer advancements that not only enhance learning but also drive real-world impact in communities locally, nationally, and globally. As a university at the forefront of health sciences, engineering, and technology, we are proud to be a catalyst for change in these fields.
Galway’s MedTech ecosystem thrives not only because of cutting-edge research but also due to partnerships that foster innovation and bring ideas from the lab to life, as evident in Cois Coiribe. Through these stories, you’ll gain insight into how our researchers, educators, and alumni are making significant strides across a vast range of fields. From ground-breaking clinical trials to cutting-edge medical technologies, and from empowering youth voices to nurturing creativity through poetry, each feature reflects the power of collaboration and innovation.
Professor Fidelma Dunne highlights why Ireland is emerging as a global leader in clinical trials, discussing advancements in diabetes management and healthcare innovation. Professor Martin O’Halloran shares the inspiring journey of BioInnovate, which bridges the gap between laboratory research and patient care by nurturing future health innovators. Meanwhile, Professor Abhay Pandit of CÚRAM discusses how we can live better as we age through breakthrough medical devices developed here in Galway.
Our new Institute for Health Discovery and Innovation, led by Professor Ted Vaughan, consolidates and amplifies the University’s strengths in biomedical science and engineering, driving forward the next wave of healthcare solutions.
Beyond the sciences, we feature voices that shape policy and practice, such as Professors Colette Kelly and Saoirse Nic Gabhainn, whose work in health promotion has informed youth health strategies across Europe for the last two decades. Dr Kathy Reilly highlights the importance of engaging young people in tackling the climate crisis, and Professor Donna Potts reflects on how Galway’s unique cultural landscape continues to inspire her poetry, reminding us that innovation is not limited to science but spans all aspects of life and learning, while Director of Sport and Physical Wellbeing, Des Ryan’s vision for inclusive sport underscores our commitment as a University to inclusivity and excellence across all areas.
And finally, we celebrate personal journeys that began here at the University of Galway and led to global success. Alumni like Dr Maciej Dabrowski and Dr Emir Muñoz share how their time in Galway’s Data Science Institute opened doors to careers at Genesys, showcasing how innovation and opportunity intersect, and Dr Thamil Venthan Ananthavinayagan reminds us of the transformative impact of a University of Galway education.
Mar fhocal scoir, as Interim President – and someone who has dedicated many years to advancing biomedical engineering – it is a particular point of pride to see how our University has become a world leader in this field. Having been a pioneer in the development of biomedical engineering at the University, in Ireland and internationally, I know first-hand the impact that innovation, collaboration, and determination can have in pushing boundaries and driving progress. Our biomedical engineering and science research and education programmes at the University are a critically important part of a thriving academia-clinical, practice-medical device industry ecosystem that has had enormous international impact, with Galway becoming one of five global hubs of the medical device industry.
As you read through these stories, I hope you feel as inspired as I do by the dedication, creativity, and partnerships that define our University community.
Le gach dea-ghuí don bhliain atá romhainn.
