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Madeleine Lowery is a Professor in the School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering at University College Dublin. She leads the Personal Sensing research group, focusing on engineering approaches to study the human nervous system in health and disease, with applications in therapies for impaired motor function. Her interdisciplinary research integrates neural engineering, electromyography, and biomedical signal processing. Specializes in neuromuscular systems and neural control of movement Develops myoelectric control systems for artificial limbs Designs high-density electrode systems for neural activity recording Investigates deep brain stimulation mechanisms in Parkinson’s disease models Her research spans neurodegenerative disorders (ALS, Huntington’s disease) and rehabilitation technologies , including wearable sensors for gait and sleep analysis. Key methodologies involve computational modeling , adaptive control systems , and biomedical signal analysis .

• Neural Engineering
• Neuromuscular Systems
• Electromyography
• +4 more

Professor Tomas Ryan is a faculty member affiliated with the Trinity Institute of Neurosciences and the Department of Biochemistry at Trinity College Dublin . His research focuses on the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying memory engram formation, synaptic plasticity, and cognitive neuroscience. He is a leading expert in memory encoding and retrieval, with significant contributions to understanding neuroplasticity in health and disease. Trinity College Dublin Fellow (2022) Scialog Fellow (2022-2024) Lister Institute Research Prize (2021) CIFAR-Azrieli Global Scholar (2021-2024) Ryan’s research spans engram cell connectivity, immune modulation of memory, and forgetting as adaptive plasticity. His work integrates molecular biology, behavioral neuroscience, and neuroimaging to explore memory dynamics in physiological and pathological contexts. Recent studies examine how immune activation and head trauma affect engram plasticity. His laboratory, the Trinity Institute of Neurosciences (TCIN) , fosters interdisciplinary research bridging molecular mechanisms and cognitive functions. Collaborations include institutions across Europe and North America, supported by grants like the ERC Starting Grant and President of Ireland Young Researcher Award .

• Neuroscience
• Memory Engram
• Synaptic Plasticity
• +3 more

Andreas Grabrucker is a Professor at the University of Limerick (Ireland), holding joint appointments in the Bernal Institute, Department of Biological Sciences, Health Research Institute, and Limerick Digital Cancer Research Centre. His research focuses on trace metal biology, particularly zinc’s role in synaptic function, neurodevelopmental disorders, and gut-brain interactions. He has pioneered studies on zinc’s regulatory mechanisms in the CNS and developed novel nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems. Key areas include autism spectrum disorders (ASD), Alzheimer’s disease, and the interplay of genetic and environmental factors in neurological conditions. Education: Diploma in Biology (TU Munich, Germany, 2005) PhD in Molecular Medicine (University Ulm, Germany, 2009) Research Interests: His work investigates how zinc dysregulation contributes to synaptic dysfunction in ASD and neurodegenerative diseases. He explores nanocarrier technologies to deliver therapeutic agents across the blood-brain barrier and uses 3D organoid models derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hIPSCs) to study disease mechanisms. Recent studies emphasize zinc’s role in gut microbiota composition, inflammatory bowel disease, and depression. Awards: Teaching Hero Award (2021) Collaborations & Leadership: He served as Executive Director of the Neurocenter at Ulm University (2011–2016) and currently leads a research cluster at the Bernal Institute. He is a Guest Associate Professor at the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia (Italy) and actively contributes to initiatives addressing UN Sustainable Development Goals related to health and innovation. Labs & Teams: His lab focuses on metallomics, nanomedicine, and translational research in neurodevelopmental disorders. Collaborations involve multidisciplinary teams studying drug delivery systems, organoid models, and clinical biomarkers for ASD and Alzheimer’s.

• Neuroscience
• Trace Metal Biology
• Synaptopathies
• +4 more

Niamh O'Sullivan is an Associate Professor in the School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science at University College Dublin (UCD), where she has been a faculty member since 2013. She previously served as Head of Genetics at UCD from 2017-2021. Dr. O'Sullivan leads a research laboratory focused on understanding motor neuron organization and function, with particular emphasis on neurodegenerative diseases. Dr. O'Sullivan earned her BA in Genetics from Trinity College Dublin in 2001, followed by a PhD in Science, Biochemistry, and Biotechnology from University College Dublin in 2005. Her postdoctoral training included positions at UCD (2005-2009), University of Cambridge as a Marie Curie Fellow (2009-2012), and Imperial College London as a Junior Research Fellow (2012-2013). Her research program specializes in using Drosophila melanogaster (fruit fly) to model neurodegenerative diseases, particularly hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP) and optic atrophy. She investigates how endoplasmic reticulum (ER) organization and mitochondrial function contribute to neuronal health and degeneration. Her work has revealed critical connections between ER-shaping proteins, mitochondrial dynamics, and axonal integrity in motor neurons. Analysis of Dr. O'Sullivan's recent publications shows a clear progression from fundamental studies of ER and mitochondrial organization in neurons toward translational research exploring therapeutic interventions for neurodegenerative conditions. Her 2022-2025 work increasingly focuses on identifying potential treatments, including lipid-regulating compounds for HSP and understanding mitochondrial dysfunction in optic atrophy. Wellcome Trust-SFI-HRB Seed Award in Science (2016) Marie Curie Fellowship (2009-2012) Junior Research Fellowship at Imperial College London (2012-2013) Dr. O'Sullivan has supervised numerous graduate students including Philippa Fowler (completed PhD), Dwayne Byrne, and Elena Garcia. She has received significant research funding including a Wellcome Trust/National Institutes of Health joint PhD studentship for her student Dwayne Byrne. Her teaching responsibilities include coordinating Epigenetics and Neuroproteinopathies modules at UCD since 2014. The O'Sullivan Lab maintains an active research program with multiple undergraduate and graduate students, international collaborators, and regular presentations at major neuroscience conferences. The O'Sullivan Lab, based at the Conway Institute at UCD, utilizes advanced imaging techniques, Drosophila genetics, and mammalian cell culture models to investigate the cellular mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative diseases. The lab has developed several novel disease models and quantitative methods for analyzing organelle morphology, particularly focusing on the endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria in neurons.

• Motor neuron diseases
• Hereditary spastic paraplegia
• Endoplasmic reticulum organization
• +6 more

Dr Benedict Ryan is a Senior Lecturer in Pharmacology at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI), School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences. He leads the Neuropsychoendocrinology Research Group and serves as MPharm Year 1 Lead. His academic qualifications include a BA (Mod) in Biochemistry from Trinity College Dublin and a PhD in Neuroscience, followed by advanced pharmacy and education certifications from RCSI. Dr Ryan's research focuses on treatment-resistant depression, particularly the role of endocrinological dysfunction, and explores novel antidepressant modalities targeting glutamatergic systems. He also investigates drug delivery innovations for infections and cancer. His work intersects with population health, obesity, and diabetes comorbidities. Publications highlight his contributions to medication safety in primary care during the pandemic, telehealth adaptations, and drug formulation strategies. He has secured grants from the Kuwait Embassy and RCSI's StAR International PhD Program. As an educator, he pioneered video-based case studies for pharmacy student assessment and contributes to healthcare quality improvement initiatives. His lab, the Neuropsychoendocrinology Group, advances interdisciplinary research at the interface of neurobiology, endocrinology, and mental health.

• Depression
• Endocrinology
• Psychopharmacology
• +9 more

Dr. Janosch Heller is an Assistant Professor of Biomedical Sciences at Dublin City University's School of Biotechnology, with affiliations as an Honorary Lecturer at University College London's Queen Square Institute of Neurology and a visiting scientist at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland. He holds an Irish Research Council Laureate and Marie Skłodowska-Curie Fellowships. His research integrates molecular biology, biochemistry, and super-resolution microscopy to study astrocyte dysfunction in neurological diseases, particularly epilepsy and neurodegeneration. Key areas include astrocyte control of waste clearance, synaptic plasticity, and microRNA regulation. Education: Diplom in Biology (University of Cologne, Germany), PhD in Clinical Neurosciences (University of Cambridge). Postdoctoral work at UCL and RCSI advanced his expertise in neuroimaging and translational neuroscience. His lab at DCU focuses on developing novel therapeutic strategies targeting astrocytes. Scientific awards include the Irish Research Council Laureate and Marie Skłodowska-Curie Fellowship. Research has led to breakthroughs in astrocyte-nanotechnology and glial-neuronal interactions. Collaborations span institutions in Ireland, UK, and Germany.

• Neuroscience
• Biomedical Sciences
• Cell Biology
• +3 more

Tomas Zurawski is an Assistant Professor at the School of Biotechnology , Dublin City University (DCU), with a career spanning molecular neurobiology and biotherapeutic development. He has contributed extensively to understanding peripheral nervous system communication and clostridial toxin pharmacology. Education : BSc in Systematic Biology & Ecology (1997), MSc in Systematic Zoology & Ecology (1999) from Masaryk University , and a PhD in Parasitology (2002) from Queen’s University Belfast . His research focuses on elucidating molecular mechanisms of peripheral nerve signaling and developing novel botulinum neurotoxin-based biotherapeutics to address overactive nerve-related disorders. He has pioneered bioassays to evaluate toxin efficacy in motor and sensory neurological conditions. Recent publications highlight his work on CGRP release , SNAP-25 cleavage , and chimeric neurotoxin designs for chronic pain and hyperexcitability disorders. Scientific awards include: DCU Invent Commercialisation Award (2022) for licensing to Allergan DCU OVPR Life Sciences Award (2009) Erasmus/Socrates Scholarship (2001) Marie Curie Fellowship (2002) He has served on DCU committees including the Animal Welfare Body , BioResource Advisory Group , and Biosafety Committee . His expertise in Rab GTPases and membrane trafficking has informed therapeutic strategies for neurological and immune disorders .

• Molecular Neurobiology
• Peripheral Nervous System
• Pharmacology
• +4 more

Marion Butler is an Assistant Professor/Lecturer in Immunology at the Department of Biology, Maynooth University, within the Faculty of Science & Engineering. She holds a PhD in Medicine from University College Dublin (UCD), conducted at Columbia University. Her research focuses on cancer (breast/ovarian) and immunology, particularly autoimmune disease mechanisms. She coordinates modules on Mechanisms of Human Disease, Advanced Immunology, and Tumour Biology. Her career includes senior post-doctoral roles at UCD’s Conway Institute and Maynooth University. She supervises PhD students like Dr Daniela Bruni and Devlin Wall-Coughlan. Professional affiliations include the Irish and European Associations for Cancer Research. Recent publications span molecular mechanisms in immunity and oncology, using techniques like Raman spectroscopy and studying pathways such as IRAK1/TLR signaling. She leads a research team addressing ovarian cancer and immunology projects, funded by various bodies.

• Cancer Research
• Immunology
• Autoimmune Diseases
• +3 more

Derek Costello serves as an Assistant Professor at University College Dublin's School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, where he also holds the position of Head of Neuroscience since 2022. His academic journey began with a BSc and PhD from University College Dublin, followed by postdoctoral research at University College London and Trinity College Dublin before returning to UCD. BSc, University College Dublin PhD, University College Dublin Prof Dip University Teaching & Learning, University College Dublin Dr. Costello's research focuses on the intersection of neuroscience and immunology, particularly examining how neuroinflammatory processes contribute to neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's disease. His work investigates the complex interactions between neuronal circuitry, brain immune cells, and the systemic immune system, with special attention to vulnerable populations including those with metabolic disorders and prior brain injuries. Using a multidisciplinary approach combining electrophysiology, biochemical analyses, imaging, and behavioral studies, his laboratory explores potential therapeutic interventions targeting neuroinflammation. Analysis of Dr. Costello's publication record reveals a consistent focus on neuroinflammation mechanisms in neurodegenerative diseases, particularly examining microglial activation, urea cycle dysregulation, and metal homeostasis in Alzheimer's pathology. His recent work increasingly incorporates zebrafish models and investigates novel therapeutic approaches including natural compounds and metal chelators. Outstanding Leadership & Dedication to Voluntary Service Award (2022) UCD College of Science Teaching Excellence Award (2020) As an active researcher and educator, Dr. Costello has secured multiple grants including a current project exploring seaweed extracts for Alzheimer's disease-related neurodegeneration. He coordinates several key modules including Neuroimmunology and Molecular Neuroimmunology, and serves as Treasurer of Neuroscience Ireland while maintaining membership in multiple professional societies including the British Neuroscience Association and Society for Neuroscience.

• Neuroscience
• Neuroimmunology
• Alzheimer's Disease
• +4 more

Dr Jana Haase is a Lecturer/Assistant Professor at the School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, and a Fellow of the UCD Conway Institute. Her research focuses on the structure, function, and regulation of monoamine neurotransmitter transporters, particularly the serotonin transporter (SERT), and its role in inflammation-induced depression and antidepressant action. Education: PhD in Biochemistry, Freie Universität Berlin, Germany (1996) Diplom (MSc) in Biochemistry, University of Leipzig, Germany (1993) Professional Certificate in University Teaching and Learning, UCD Research Interests: Dr Haase’s group investigates how SERT interacts with regulatory proteins and lipid rafts, how inflammation alters transporter function, and how these mechanisms contribute to depression. Her work spans proteomics , cell signaling , lipidomics , and behavioral neuroscience . Research Trends: Her recent publications highlight a systems-level approach to understanding serotonin signaling, integrating molecular, cellular, and behavioral data. She explores how lipid environments, immune signaling, and genetic factors modulate transporter function and contribute to psychiatric disorders. Grants and Funding: Dr Haase has secured over 25 grants, including funding from the Health Research Board, UCD ADVANCE PhD Scheme, and international symposium support. Her projects range from basic molecular studies to translational research on inflammation-induced depression and cannabinoid regulation of SERT. Professional Memberships: International Society for Serotonin Research International Transmembrane Transporter Society Biochemical Society (Local Ambassador) Teaching Contributions: She coordinates and teaches advanced modules in neurochemistry, genomics, proteomics, and research strategies at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, and supervises Erasmus and MSc research projects.

• Serotonin transporter regulation
• Neurotransmitter transporter interactions
• Lipid rafts and membrane microdomains
• +3 more

Professor Keith Murphy is a leading academic at University College Dublin , affiliated with the School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science and the Conway Institute . As head of the UCD Neurotherapeutics Research Group , he pioneers work on drug targets for neurological disorders. Professor of Neuropharmacology (2018–present) Co-Director, UCD Centre for Applied Neuroscience (2015–present) Theme Leader for Neuroscience Research (2011–present) His research spans drug addiction , schizophrenia , multiple sclerosis , and memory consolidation , utilizing animal models , in vivo gene editing , and proteomic analysis . Recent work on cocaine-induced neurodevelopmental damage and midkine's role in memory demonstrates his focus on synaptic plasticity mechanisms. Key scientific contributions include: 2006: Rafaelsen Scholarship for neuropharmacology research 2016: Discovery of REST as hypoxia-responsive repressor 2025: Groundbreaking prenatal cocaine organoid study As an educator , he coordinated modules like Advanced CNS Pharmacology and Professional Career Development , mentoring future biomedical scientists. Current grants include SFI funding (2024–2027) for GDF-15/GFRAL signaling research in neuroprotection.

• Neuropharmacology
• Neuroscience
• Neurodegenerative Diseases
• +8 more

Professor John O'Connor is a leading academic in the School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science at University College Dublin , with a distinguished career spanning over three decades. His research focuses on synaptic transmission and plasticity in the central nervous system, neuroimmunology , and smooth muscle physiology , particularly in human uterine tissue. Academic Leadership : Served as Head of Teaching & Learning (2019-2023) and Associate Dean for Widening Participation (2012-2019). Teaching Philosophy : Advocates for blended and interactive teaching with humor and engagement, coordinating modules like Higher Cortical Function and Synaptic Plasticity since 2020. Research Highlights : Neuroprotection : Investigates prolyl hydroxylase domain inhibitors (PHDIs) and their role in stroke therapy , Parkinson's disease , and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis . Demonstrated PHDI-mediated synaptic transmission recovery post-hypoxia and HIF-independent mechanisms in neuroprotection. Neuroimmunology : Pioneered studies on tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) modulation of long-term potentiation (LTP) during hypoxia and its implications for memory formation and neuroinflammatory disorders . Fast Cyclic Voltammetry : Advanced real-time monitoring of dopamine release in striatum and nucleus accumbens , exploring interactions with MDMA , nicotine , and dopamine D1 receptor ligands . Human Myometrium Studies : Collaborates with Coombe Women's Hospital on ergometrine mechanisms , prostaglandin effects , and antioxidant protection against toxicant-induced contractility inhibition. Scientific Recognition : Recipient of the Conway Silver Medal (2010), Teaching Excellence Award (2016), and Conway Fellow (2007). Active reviewer for journals like Neuropharmacology and Scientific Reports .

• Neuroscience
• Synaptic Transmission
• Synaptic Plasticity
• +4 more

Sean Quinlan is a Lecturer in Neuroscience at the School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin. His research focuses on the pathophysiology of early-life seizures and their role in epilepsy etiology, particularly examining calcium-activated potassium channels, intracellular calcium receptors, and hippocampal cellular dynamics. His work emphasizes neurotoxicity profiles of anti-seizure medications, transcriptomic alterations in the hippocampus, and the intersection of neuroinflammation with seizure pathology. Recent studies explore purinergic signaling, microRNA detection methods, and neurodevelopmental outcomes of drug interventions. Quinlan's publications span seizure suppression mechanisms (Padsevonil), comparative neurotoxicity analysis (phenobarbital vs. levetiracetam), and advanced diagnostic approaches for neonatal encephalopathy using purine nucleosides. His research integrates molecular neuroscience, pharmacology, and clinical translational models. Scientific awards include the Conway Fellow (University College Dublin, 2024) MSCA Research Fellow (2022-2024) Quinlan teaches Membrane Biology (Neur30080, 2024) and holds certifications in Bioinformatics and Data Analytics from University College Dublin.

• Neuroscience
• Epilepsy
• Neuropharmacology
• +5 more

Associate Professor Caroline Herron is affiliated with the School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science at University College Dublin , where she conducts research at the Conway Institute. Her work focuses on synaptic transmission , synaptic plasticity , and the effects of beta amyloid peptide in Alzheimer's disease , with a particular emphasis on long-term potentiation (LTP) and neuroprotective agents like statins and cannabidiol . Research Keywords : Synaptic signaling, In vitro hippocampal slice models, Glutamate receptors, Neuroinflammatory mechanisms, Cannabinoid therapeutics, Ion channel modulation. Teaching : Coordinates modules in Membrane biology (2014–2025) and Neuroscience Research Project (2016–2023). Scientific Contributions include studies on: Cannabidiol’s neuroprotection in Alzheimer’s models (2019, 2023, 2025) Role of JNK and PPARγ pathways in Aβ toxicity (2003–2005) Mechanisms of LTP inhibition by amyloid-beta conformers (2008–2013) Structure-based design of Kv1.1 channel inhibitors for demyelinating diseases (2017) Scientific Awards : 2005: Piccione Research Fellowship for collaborative research 2000: President Research Award , University College Dublin Professional Leadership : Serves on the Animal Research Ethics Committee (2009–present) and as Treasurer of Neuroscience Ireland (2006–present). Active in Physiological Society , American Society for Neuroscience , and International Cannabinoid Research Society .

• Neuroscience
• Synaptic Transmission
• Alzheimer's Disease
• +7 more