Biomedical Research Cluster
Overview
A biomedical research cluster has recently evolved in Waterford Institute of Technology (WIT) involving staff members and associated clinicians in Waterford Regional Hospital (WRH). These have been engaged in cancer, vascular health, diabetes and bone health research projects. Linked into the centre are researchers and research active clinicians in the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland.
Members of the group are involved in applied research to identify sensitive blood biomarkers of disease type and progression but also research that evaluates the efficacy of various pharmacological, nutritional and exercise therapies. The group have benefited greatly by working together, sharing core laboratory facilities, analytical expertise, student training opportunities and biomedical contacts. Cross-fertilisation of ideas is another consequence of working together. The disease states of interest have in common a number of biological processes (including inflammation and oxidative stress), biomarkers and cell signalling pathways. The identification of sensitive blood biomarkers of disease activity is a shared interest across all BRC sub-disciplines. As it grows, this group has the potential to serve as a focal point for other academics and clinicians with an interest in biomedical research in the south-east.
The BRC has been successful in securing over €500,000 funding to purchase laboratory equipment, internally through the BEHEST fund and externally via HEA equipment funds to establish a core laboratory facility. In the last 2007 – 2008 academic year, the group has been successful in securing project funds of €500,000 (two strand I projects and a strand III project). These funds will grow the number of post-graduate students, solidify links with external partners and allow a post-doctoral fellow to be recruited.
Contact:
Dr. Orla O’Donovan
Department of Chemical & Life Sciences
Waterford Institute of Technology
Cork Road
Waterford
Tel: 051 302626 or Email: oodonovan@wit.ie