Richard Roche

Richard Roche is a Professor and Deputy Head of the Department of Psychology at Maynooth University since 2021. He joined the university as a Lecturer in 2005 after postgraduate/postdoctoral work at Trinity College Dublin. His research focuses on cognitive neuroscience/neuropsychology, particularly memory, aging, dementia, stroke, brain injury, and synaesthesia. He has published 37 research articles, three books, and secured over €1.45M in research funding. Collaborations include Tallaght Hospital, Peamount Hospital, and the National Rehabilitation Hospital. He served on Neuroscience Ireland (2005–2014) and founded the Irish Brain Council (2013). He has supervised 9 PhD and 4 MSc students, advising additional 2 PhD and 1 MSc candidates. He advocates for neuroscience outreach and public engagement.

Education: Postgraduate and postdoctoral studies at Trinity College Dublin.

Research Interests:

• Cognitive neuroscience/neuropsychology
• Memory mechanisms and disorders
• Age-related cognitive decline (e.g., Alzheimer’s)
• Stroke rehabilitation and cognitive recovery
• Traumatic brain injury (TBI) effects
• Synaesthesia and sensory integration

Collaborations:

• Maynooth University-Stroke Unit of Tallaght Hospital collaboration
• Peamount, Beaumont, and St. Vincent’s Hospitals partnerships
• National Rehabilitation Hospital (Dún Laoghaire)

Grants & Funding: Over €1.45M in competitive research funding secured.

Advocacy & Outreach: Longstanding commitment to neuroscience public engagement, including founding the Irish Brain Council (2013).