Find Academic Supervisors

Shirin MoghaddamView profile

Associate Professor

• Survival Analysis
• Bayesian Statistics
• Statistical Modelling
• +4 more

Dr. Shirin Moghaddam is an Associate Professor and Lecturer in Statistics and Data Science at the University of Limerick , within the Department of Mathematics and Statistics . She is also an active member of the Limerick Digital Cancer Research Centre and the Mathematics Applications Consortium for Science and Industry (MACSI) . Her work bridges advanced statistical methodologies with real-world medical applications, particularly in oncology and neurodegenerative disease research. Education: BSc in Statistics – University of Tehran MSc in Mathematical Statistics – University of Tehran PhD in Statistics – University of Galway (NUIG) Research Focus: Dr. Moghaddam's research centers on survival analysis , Bayesian modeling , and machine learning , with a strong emphasis on translational cancer research . She develops predictive models for time-to-event outcomes in prostate cancer and other diseases, integrating genomic and clinical data to improve diagnostic and prognostic accuracy. Her work often involves interdisciplinary collaboration, combining statistics with bioinformatics, clinical oncology, and molecular biology. Scientific Contributions & Trends: Her recent publications reflect a consistent trajectory in applying advanced statistical techniques—especially Bayesian imputation and machine learning—to high-dimensional biomedical data. A recurring theme is the use of mRNA and protein biomarkers to enhance prediction of survival outcomes in prostate cancer patients, both pre- and post-operatively. Her 2024 and 2023 papers in PLoS ONE and Cancers highlight this focus, while her 2023 Molecular Neurobiology paper extends similar methodologies to Parkinson’s disease biomarkers. Leadership & Service: Chair, Young Statisticians Section – Irish Statistical Association (2023–present) Member – Cancer Trials Ireland Collaborations & Networks: Dr. Moghaddam collaborates extensively within Ireland and internationally, contributing to national cancer research initiatives and statistical modeling consortia. Her affiliations with MACSI and the Limerick Digital Cancer Research Centre position her at the intersection of applied mathematics, data science, and clinical research.

• Breast Cancer
• Colorectal Cancer
• Endocrinology
• +3 more

Dr. Jean McBryan is a Lecturer at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI), based in the Department of Molecular Medicine. Her research focuses on breast and colorectal cancer, particularly estrogen signaling pathways and endocrine therapy resistance. She holds a PhD in Pharmacology from University College Dublin and a Postgraduate Diploma in Medical Education from RCSI. Her academic career includes roles as an Honorary Lecturer in Surgery and a Postdoctoral Research Scientist. Her research spans breast cancer metastasis, hormonal influences in colorectal cancer, and the mechanisms underlying treatment resistance. Key areas include the estrogen signaling pathway in endocrine therapy adaptation and sexually dimorphic protection in colorectal cancer. Dr. McBryan's work is supported by grants from institutions like the Irish Cancer Society and Breast Cancer Ireland. She supervises research on endocrine modulation in colorectal cancer progression. Professional memberships include the European Association for Cancer Research and The Physiological Society. Her publications (27 total) explore topics such as proteomic profiling of breast cancer cells, GPER receptor effects in colon cancer, and biomarkers for endocrine resistance. Ongoing projects include investigating dormant breast cancer cells and circRNA as ovarian cancer biomarkers.

• Cancer Research
• Molecular Oncology
• Immunology
• +6 more

Annemarie Larkin serves as a Principal Investigator at Atlantic Technological University in Ireland within the Department of Life Sciences, where she leads the Cellular Health & Toxicology Group. Her research spans multiple areas of cancer biology with a particular focus on molecular mechanisms of cancer progression and drug resistance. Dr. Larkin's research interests center on cancer biology , particularly pancreatic cancer and melanoma. Her work explores drug resistance mechanisms, with significant contributions to understanding Multidrug Resistance Protein 1 and P-Glycoprotein. She also investigates monoclonal antibody development for diagnostic applications and studies neoplastic cell lines to understand cancer cell behavior. Her fingerprint analysis reveals strong activity in Pharmacology, Toxicology, Immunology, and Microbiology domains. Her publication record demonstrates expertise in cancer genomics, with recent work focusing on pancreatic cancer organoid modeling, melanoma biomarkers, and fungal diagnostic applications. The research shows consistent activity with publications spanning from 1997 to 2022, with multiple high-impact papers in the last three years. Scientific Awards: No specific awards mentioned in available information Dr. Larkin maintains active collaborations across multiple institutions, particularly in cancer research projects. Her work with pancreatic cancer organoids and melanoma biomarkers demonstrates translational research with potential clinical applications. The Cellular Health & Toxicology Group she leads appears to focus on molecular mechanisms of cellular responses to various stressors and therapeutic agents.

Ozgur BayramView profile

Professor

• Molecular Microbiology
• Genetics
• Fungal Biology
• +6 more

Ozgur Bayram is a Professor of Molecular Microbiology & Genetics in the Biology Department at Maynooth University, Ireland. He holds roles as a member of the Irish Fungal Society and serves as an Associate Editor for multiple journals, including PLOS Genetics and Fungal Genetics and Biology. His research focuses on fungal biology, particularly the regulation of mycotoxin production and beneficial applications of fungi in bioremediation and circular economy. Bayram earned his PhD in Molecular Microbiology from Georg-August University (2007) and has held positions at the same institution as a Postdoctoral Fellow (2008–2011) and Project Leader (2011–2014). His work spans collaborations with global institutions, including the University of Macau, Brazil’s University Sao Paolo, and the University of Tokyo. His research interests include understanding fungal secondary metabolite production, reducing mycotoxin contamination, and leveraging fungal enzymes for environmental and industrial applications. Key achievements include landmark publications on transcriptional regulatory complexes (e.g., velvet complex, COP9) and organizing the European Conference on Fungal Genetics (ECFG2025). Bayram has secured grants totaling over €6 million, including the Ireland-Vietnam Partnership project (2024–2027) and the Molecular Analysis of Chromatin-Regulated Gene Expression (2022–2026). He has been recognized with awards such as the SFI Career Development Award (2014) and the Early Career Research Achievement Award (2019). Teaching responsibilities include modules like Genomics and Proteomics, Fungal and Bacterial Secondary Metabolism, and supervising research projects. His lab actively collaborates with institutions worldwide, advancing fungal genetics and biotechnology.

Diarmuid O'MaoileidighView profile

Assistant Professor

• Plant Developmental Biology
• Transcription Factor Networks
• Floral Organ Development
• +3 more

Dr. Diarmuid O'Maoileidigh is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biology at Maynooth University, part of the Faculty of Science & Engineering. He holds a PhD in Plant Developmental Genetics and a B.A. in Human Genetics from Trinity College Dublin (TCD). His research focuses on plant developmental genetics, particularly the molecular mechanisms governing flower and fruit development, with an emphasis on cis-regulatory elements and transcription factors. He leads the Comparative Developmental Genetics (CDG) lab, exploring how floral organs become photosynthetically active and investigating variation in photosynthetic activity across species using genomic and physiological approaches. Education: PhD in Plant Developmental Genetics, Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Trinity College Dublin (2007) B.A. Moderatorship in Human Genetics, Trinity College Dublin (2003) Research Interests: His work dissects transcription factor networks controlling floral organ identity and the integration of leaf developmental programs. Recent projects include studying photosynthetic activity in floral organs and the role of microRNAs like MIR172 in floral transitions. He has secured grants such as the BBSRC David Phillips Fellowship (2020) and led projects like the 'Rewiring of photosynthesis in floral organs' (2023-2025). Professional Highlights: Recipient of the Humboldt Postdoctoral Fellowship (2016) Associate Editor for bio-protocol (2023–present) Committee Member of the Sustainable Ecosystems Research Cluster (2023–present) Outreach: Engages in public science initiatives like Pint of Science Ireland and serves as a judge for secondary school science competitions (SciFest 2023).

Niall BarronView profile

Professor

• Biomedical Engineering
• Biochemical Engineering
• Cellular and Molecular Biology
• +5 more

Professor Niall Barron is a Professor of Biochemical Engineering at the School of Chemical and Bioprocess Engineering, University College Dublin (UCD), and a Principal Investigator at the National Institute for Bioprocessing Research and Training (NIBRT). He holds a BA (Mod) in Microbiology from Trinity College Dublin and a PhD in Applied Microbiology/Biochemistry from the University of Ulster (1997). His postdoctoral research at Baylor College of Medicine focused on nuclear steroid receptor function via genome engineering. He has held academic and research roles at Dublin City University (DCU), including Director of the National Institute for Cellular Biotechnology (NICB) from 2015–2017. His research focuses on genetic engineering strategies to improve recombinant protein production in CHO cells, AAV/LV vector manufacturing, and epigenetic regulation of bioprocess performance. He leads projects funded by industry and EU grants, including initiatives to enhance gene therapy vector production and mRNA methylation control. Education: BA (Mod) in Microbiology, Trinity College Dublin PhD in Applied Microbiology/Biochemistry, University of Ulster (1997) Research Interests: Targeted genome editing in CHO cells for improved biopharmaceutical production Optimization of AAV and LV vector systems for gene therapy miRNA and epitranscriptomic regulation of cellular processes Single-cell analysis to understand clonal variability and production instability Grants & Collaborations: Lead on grants from GSK, Enterprise Ireland, and Horizon 2020 (e.g., STACCATO, GeneClick) Focus on advancing bioprocess technologies and cell line engineering Teaching: Coordinates modules in biopharmaceutical manufacturing, biotechnology principles, and gene therapy processes Program Director for the MEngSc in Biopharmaceutical Manufacturing (Part-Time) Labs & Teams: Leads a multidisciplinary team at UCD and NIBRT focusing on biopharmaceutical engineering and cell line optimization

• Biopharmaceutical Engineering
• CHO Cell Biology
• Single-cell Transcriptomics
• +6 more

Dr. Colin Clarke is an Associate Professor at University College Dublin's School of Chemical and Bioprocess Engineering. His research focuses on advancing biopharmaceutical manufacturing processes through innovative approaches in cell line development, single-cell analysis, and bioprocess optimization. He has established himself as a leading researcher in CHO cell biology and biopharmaceutical production systems. Dr. Clarke received his educational training at prestigious institutions: BSc from Waterford Institute of Technology MSc from Cranfield University, Bedford, UK PhD from Cranfield University, Bedford, UK Dr. Clarke's research program centers on understanding and improving biopharmaceutical production systems. His work spans multiple interconnected areas including CHO cell line development and characterization, mitochondrial DNA analysis, single-cell transcriptomics of production cell lines, and advanced bioprocess monitoring. A significant portion of his research focuses on understanding heterogeneity within production cell populations and how this impacts product quality and yield. His lab has developed innovative approaches for single-cell mitochondrial DNA sequencing and has made important contributions to understanding microprotein impurities in therapeutic antibodies. Dr. Clarke also investigates CAR T-cell production systems, focusing on improving transduction efficiency through modulation of cellular pathways. Analysis of Dr. Clarke's recent publications reveals a strong focus on single-cell technologies applied to biopharmaceutical production systems. His work spans both mammalian (CHO) and insect cell platforms, with particular emphasis on understanding cellular heterogeneity and its impact on product quality. A notable trend is the application of advanced sequencing technologies (RNA-seq, scRNA-seq, Ribo-seq) to uncover previously hidden aspects of cell biology relevant to bioproduction. His research bridges fundamental cell biology with practical bioprocess applications, consistently aiming to translate basic discoveries into improved manufacturing processes. Dr. Clarke actively supervises PhD students as a Thesis Supervisor and contributes to undergraduate and graduate education at University College Dublin. His teaching portfolio includes courses on biopharmaceutical engineering projects, engineering computing, bioprocess scale-up, facility design, and data science applications in biopharmaceutical manufacturing. He has consistently taught these courses since 2020, demonstrating his commitment to developing the next generation of biopharmaceutical engineers.

• Mycobacterial Infections
• Bovine Tuberculosis
• Genomics
• +3 more

Professor Stephen Gordon is a Full Professor at University College Dublin's School of Veterinary Medicine, with joint appointments in the Schools of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science and Medicine. He holds an Orcid identifier (0000-0002-4833-5542) and has been a Full Professor since 2021, previously holding the same title from 2008–2021. His research focuses on mycobacterial infections, particularly bovine tuberculosis (bTB), leveraging genomics, transcriptomics, and molecular epidemiology. Education: BSc (Hons) in Veterinary Science, National University of Ireland, Galway (1986–1990) PhD in Microbiology, University of Leicester (1991–1995), supported by Wellcome Trust grants Research Interests: His work explores the molecular mechanisms of mycobacterial pathogenesis, host-pathogen interactions, and the development of diagnostics and control strategies for TB in cattle and humans. Key areas include genomic epidemiology of Mycobacterium bovis, comparative genomics of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex members, and the role of vitamin D in mycobacterial immunity. Professional Activities: Member of the DAFM Scientific Advisory Committee for Animal Health and Welfare (2014–2018) Member of the Veterinary Council of Ireland (2014–2017) Editorial roles in journals such as Tuberculosis , PLoS ONE , and Microbiology-Sgm Awards: VLA Young Scientist of the Year (2000) Wellcome Trust Fellowships (1991–1995) Teaching & Supervision: Leads the Thematic Doctoral Programme in Infection Biology and teaches courses on Systems Microbiology, Genomics, and Veterinary Pathobiology. Supervises PhD students in TB-related research. Grants & Funding: Secured major grants including the €5M 'One-TB' initiative and collaborations on genomic epidemiology tools for bTB control. Current projects address wildlife reservoirs, diagnostic improvements, and whole-genome sequencing applications in Ireland's TB eradication efforts.

Susanne BarthView profile

Researcher

• Genomics
• Agronomy
• Plant Breeding
• +4 more

Susanne Barth is a Research Officer at Teagasc, Ireland's Agriculture and Food Development Authority, and a Research Associate at Trinity College Dublin. Her work focuses on forage species, grass weeds, and cereals, emphasizing genetic resources, reproductive traits, and abiotic stress responses. She leads projects like the EU-funded GrassMargins initiative on bioenergy crops and has contributed to the sequencing of perennial ryegrass genomes. She serves as a handling editor for Annals of Botany and Agronomy , and chairs roles in genetic resource advisory boards. Her expertise spans plant genomics, crop improvement, and sustainable agriculture. Education: Diplom Ingenieur Agrarwissenschaften from Universität Hohenheim and a PhD in Plant Breeding from the same institution. Research interests include genomic tools for hybrid breeding in ryegrass, biomass crop genomics, and reproductive assurance mechanisms. Current projects address genomic editing for hybrid breeding, drought tolerance in Miscanthus, and tillage practices in agriculture. She has edited two books on biomass crops and forage improvement, and supervises three PhD students on topics ranging from Sitka spruce genetics to barley nitrogen nutrition.

Antonio LourencoView profile

Academic

• Food Microbiology
• Food Safety
• Dairy Science
• +5 more

Dr. Antonio Lourenco serves as an Assistant Lecturer at TU Dublin's School of Food Science and Environmental Health. His academic foundation includes a Ph.D. in Food Engineering from Instituto Superior de Agronomia (University of Lisbon), MSc in Food Technology from Universidade Nova de Lisboa, and B.Eng. in Food Engineering from Universidade Técnica de Lisboa. His research spans microbial ecology in food systems, food safety, and sustainable processing with emphasis on dairy, biofilms, and pathogens like Listeria and Salmonella . Current work integrates advanced techniques including transcriptomic analysis and proteomic profiling to study pathogen behavior in low-moisture foods and fermented products. Publication trends reveal deep specialization in food microbiology, particularly pathogen control in dairy and dry cereals. His 23 research outputs demonstrate consistent focus on real-world applications including kefir production (DOMINO project), raw milk cheese safety, and thermal resistance modeling. He actively supervises postgraduate students on biofilm formation, pathogen ecology, and food processing innovations. Collaborations span Teagasc, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, University of Minnesota, and international institutions including Polytechnic University of Cartagena. His laboratory work integrates cutting-edge methodologies like X-ray microtomography and confocal Raman microscopy for food microstructure analysis, with ongoing research in industrial microbiology and sustainable food systems.

• Veterinary Genomics
• Immunogenetics
• Host-Pathogen Interactions
• +7 more

Dr. Michael Mullen is a Lecturer in the Department of Bioveterinary and Microbial Sciences at the Faculty of Science and Health. His research bridges veterinary science, genomics, and immunology, with a focus on host-pathogen interactions in livestock species. His research interests include: Veterinary Genomics Immunogenetics Host-Pathogen Interactions Bovine and Ovine Genetics Epigenetics in Immune Cells Population Genomics of Native Breeds The recent publications highlight a strong trend in understanding the genomic and epigenomic regulation of macrophage responses to mycobacterial infections, particularly in cattle and other mammals. His work also extends to genetic analysis of disease resistance traits in dairy cattle and conservation genomics of indigenous sheep breeds, contributing to sustainable agricultural development. Scientific contributions include: Elucidating chromatin modifications in alveolar macrophages during Mycobacterium bovis infection Identifying genetic haplotypes influencing immune responses in cattle Conducting population genomics studies on native Irish sheep breeds Dr. Mullen has not listed any formal advisees or grant funding in the available materials. He collaborates extensively with researchers in genomics and veterinary sciences, as evidenced by co-authorship on integrative studies involving transcriptomic, epigenomic, and population-level analyses.

• Toxicology
• Pharmacology
• Renal Disease
• +7 more

Hilary Cassidy is an Assistant Professor in Toxicology, Pharmacology & Regulatory Affairs at the School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin (UCD). She holds a BSc in Toxicology from Athlone Institute of Technology, a BSc in Biochemistry and Biotechnology from Dublin Institute of Technology, and both an MSc and PhD in Pharmacology and Toxicology from UCD. Dr. Cassidy is a registered toxicologist on both the Irish and European Registers (IRT/ERT). Her academic journey includes: Assistant Professor in Toxicology, Pharmacology & Regulatory Affairs at UCD (2021-present) Assistant Professor in Toxicology and Pharmacology at UCD (2019-2021) Specialist Lecturer at Dublin Technology University (2014-2020) Baxter Newman Fellow at UCD Conway Institute (2014-2016) Postdoctoral Researcher at UCD Systems Biology Ireland (2016-2019) Dr. Cassidy's research focuses on the application of OMIC technologies for identifying novel urinary biomarkers of renal disease, with particular interest in the role of primary cilia as a source of urinary biomarkers. She leads a research group in Systems Biology Ireland UCD focused on toxicology, renal disease and cancer. Her work includes developing alternatives methods in toxicity testing for chemical screening and establishing novel accurate models of renal cell injury. She is also one of three PIs forming the UCD Centre for Toxicology. Dr. Cassidy has been involved in the international SmartNanoTox project, a Horizon 2020 project concerned with understanding the mechanisms of toxicity associated with inhaled nanoparticles. Her recent publications reveal a strong trend toward nanotoxicology, renal disease biomarkers, and cancer research, particularly kidney cancer. The articles demonstrate expertise in proteomic and genomic approaches to understanding disease mechanisms and identifying potential therapeutic targets. Her work often involves collaboration across multiple institutions and disciplines. Her scientific recognition includes: Baxter Newman Fellowship (2014) Irish Registered Toxicologist (2023) Teacher of the Year award (2023) Teacher of the Year award (2019) Dr. Cassidy is an experienced lecturer in toxicology, pharmacology, biochemistry, and related disciplines including renal pharmacology, diabetes and diabetic complications, chemotherapeutic agents, and principles of microbial infection. She coordinates and delivers a postgraduate module for PhD students on being effective demonstrators and undergraduate teachers. Her teaching portfolio includes Advanced Renal Pharmacology, Chemotherapeutic Agents, Environmental Food Occupational Toxicology, Experimental Toxicology and Risk Assessment, and Medical and Forensic Toxicology. She is a member of several professional organizations including the Irish Society of Toxicology, Irish Association for Cancer Research, and The Organization of Professionals in Regulatory Affairs.

• Traumatic Brain Injury
• Neuroinflammation
• Obesity-TBI Comorbidity
• +4 more

Dr. Rebecca Henry is an Assistant Professor in Pharmacology at the School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, where she joined in 2024 as a Royal Society - SFI University Research Fellow. Previously, she held a lectureship position at the Department of Anatomy & Neuroscience, University College Cork starting in 2021. Her educational background includes: B.Sc. (Hons) in Physiology from the University of Galway (2011) Ph.D. from the University of Galway (2015), investigating pharmacological modulation of the endocannabinoid system on TLR-induced neuroinflammation Postdoctoral training at the Shock Trauma and Anesthesiology Research Center (STAR), University of Maryland, Baltimore Certificate in Teaching and Learning in Higher Education from University College Cork (2022-2023) Johns Hopkins/University of Maryland Baltimore Collaborative Teaching Fellowship Program (2020-2021) Dr. Henry's research focuses on the neuroimmune interplay between obesity and traumatic brain injury (TBI). Her Henry Lab investigates how pre-existing metabolic dysfunction affects TBI outcomes, with particular emphasis on: Therapeutic potential of anti-obesity drugs in co-morbid diet-induced obesity and TBI Impact of environmental factors (exercise, diet) on TBI outcomes in obese patients Bi-directional relationship between the brain and periphery in obesity-TBI comorbidity Sex differences in neuroimmune responses to TBI and implications for treatment Analysis of her recent publications (2020-2025) reveals a strong focus on neuroinflammation mechanisms following TBI, particularly examining how obesity exacerbates TBI outcomes through altered immune responses. Her work spans from basic molecular mechanisms to clinical implications, with increasing emphasis on translational approaches to improve TBI outcomes in metabolically compromised patients. Her notable scientific achievement includes: Royal Society - SFI University Research Fellowship Dr. Henry serves as a PhD thesis supervisor and co-supervisor at University College Dublin. She has secured research funding including the SFI grant 'Investigation of the role of the GDF-15/GFRAL signalling axis in mediating neuroprotective effects in the presence of co-morbid diet-induced obesity and TBI' (2024-2027). Her teaching philosophy emphasizes active learning strategies, small group learning, and empowering students to take ownership of their learning. She holds formal teaching qualifications from both University College Cork and the Johns Hopkins/University of Maryland Baltimore Collaborative Teaching Fellowship Program.

• Platelet biology
• Extracellular vesicles
• Proteomics
• +5 more

Professor Patricia Maguire is a Professor of Biochemistry at University College Dublin's School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science and serves as the Institute Director of the UCD Institute for Discovery and Scientific Director of the UCD Conway SPHERE Research Group. With over €5 million in competitive research funding, including significant contributions from industry partners like Bayer AG, Sanofi, and Google, she has established herself as a global leader in interdisciplinary biomedical research. Professor Maguire received her BSc and PhD from University College Dublin and has completed advanced training including the Irish Universities Association Leadership Programme and the NSF Innovation Corps entrepreneurial training program. Her research focuses on platelet biology, particularly the "platelet releasate" - the cargo that platelets release upon activation. She has pioneered the PALADIN (PlAteLet bAsed DIagNostics) platform, which combines platelet analysis with artificial intelligence to develop non-invasive diagnostic tools. Her most notable project, AI_PREMie, aims to use AI and platelet analysis to predict and prevent preeclampsia in pregnancy. Her work spans multiple disciplines including hematology, proteomics, cardiovascular disease, neonatology, and AI applications in healthcare. Professor Maguire's recent research output shows a strong focus on extracellular vesicles, particularly platelet-derived ones, and their role in various diseases including cardiovascular conditions, cancer-associated thrombosis, neonatal health, and neurological disorders. Her work increasingly integrates artificial intelligence with traditional biomedical research to develop diagnostic and therapeutic applications. Winner of the AI Innovation of the Year Award (Public Sector Digital Transformation Awards 2023) Winner of the 2023 Analytics and AI Awards Social Impact Award Recognized as Excellent in the Top 100 projects globally using AI related to the UN SDGs Best Application of AI to Achieve Social Good Award (2022) Best Application of AI in an Academic Research Body (2022) Science Foundation Ireland Mentorship Award (2020) UCD Values in Action Award (2018) Professor Maguire has supervised numerous PhD, MSc, and MD students, including Jane Howard whose PhD examination she chaired in July 2023. She has secured significant research funding, including multiple grants for the AI_PREMie project and other initiatives focused on platelet biology and diagnostics. She coordinates the "DesignDataScience & Discovery" module and has been involved in various teaching innovation projects. As Scientific Director of the UCD Conway SPHERE Research Group and Institute Director of the UCD Institute for Discovery, Professor Maguire leads multidisciplinary teams focused on translating basic research into clinical applications. Her AI_PREMie project brings together experts in biomedical science, AI, and clinical care to develop tools that could save mothers' and babies' lives through early detection of preeclampsia.

• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Eosinophilic esophagitis
• Fibroblast biology
• +4 more

Dr Mario Manresa is an Assistant Professor (Ad Astra Fellow) in the School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science at University College Dublin , working from the Conway Institute. He also served as Principal Investigator in the UCD School of Medicine (2022) and held post-doctoral positions at UC San Diego and Harvard Medical School. His research programme dissects how intestinal fibroblasts transition from homeostatic to inflammatory phenotypes and how these cells dialog with innate immune cells in chronic inflammatory disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE). Education & Training PhD – University College Dublin Post-doctoral Fellowship – University of California San Diego, Pediatrics (2018–2021) Post-doctoral Fellowship – Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Pathology (2017–2018) Post-doctoral Fellowship – University College Dublin, Medicine (2016–2017) Research Interests Dr Manresa’s laboratory employs primary human cell culture, co-culture systems, flow cytometry and transcriptomics to understand: molecular drivers (TNF-superfamily cytokines such as TWEAK and LIGHT) that switch fibroblasts toward pathogenic phenotypes; micro-environmental modulators (hypoxia, extracellular matrix composition) shaping fibroblast behaviour; therapeutic restoration of WNT pathway homeostasis to resolve inflammation; interactions between inflammatory fibroblasts and monocytes/macrophages that perpetuate mucosal inflammation. Grant Support & Collaborations UCD Conway Institute Director’s Strategic Award – Ad Astra & Emerging Investigators (2022–2024) Enterprise Ireland / UCD Project Grant – pancreatic cancer-on-chip model of immune cell infiltration (2023–2025) Teaching & Mentoring He coordinates two undergraduate modules—“Cell Signalling” and “Molecular Basis of Disease”—and currently supervises PhD theses, having mentored post-doctoral researcher Carlos Matellan Martin. Professional Service Dr Manresa serves as a peer reviewer for Digestive Diseases Week and is multilingual (English, Spanish, Italian), facilitating international collaboration.