Colm Collins

Dr. Colm Collins is an Assistant Professor at University College Dublin's School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, where he has held his position since September 2019. He is affiliated with the Conway Institute and maintains an active research program focused on inflammatory bowel disease mechanisms and therapeutics. His work bridges immunology, molecular biology, and pharmacology to develop novel treatment approaches for gastrointestinal inflammatory conditions.

• BSc Hons, University College Dublin
• PhD, University College Dublin
• Professional Certificate in University Teaching & Learning, University College Dublin

Dr. Collins' research centers on understanding the immunological mechanisms underlying inflammatory bowel disease, with particular emphasis on regulatory T cell function, microRNA regulation, and the endocannabinoid system's role in mucosal immunity. His laboratory investigates how these pathways can be targeted to develop novel therapeutics for IBD, focusing on how microRNAs modulate T cell function during inflammation and how the endocannabinoid system attenuates intestinal disease. His work has significant translational potential for developing more targeted IBD treatments.

Analysis of Dr. Collins' recent publications reveals a consistent focus on T cell immunology in inflammatory bowel disease, with particular emphasis on regulatory T cell function and novel therapeutic targets. His research spans molecular mechanisms (microRNA regulation, transcription factors), cellular pathways (endocannabinoid system, adenosine signaling), and translational applications (lactoferrin therapeutics, cannabinoid-based treatments). The breadth of his work demonstrates a comprehensive approach to understanding IBD pathogenesis from multiple angles while maintaining a strong focus on identifying clinically relevant therapeutic targets.

Dr. Collins has received significant research funding supporting his work in inflammatory bowel disease:

• UCD CONWAY INSTITUTE DIRECTOR'S STRATEGIC AWARDS AD ASTRAS & EMERGING INVESTIGATORS (2022-2024)
• Ad Astra Start Up 2019 (2019-2024)
• Selective MicroRNA modification to enhance regulatory T cell function in IBD (NIDDK, 2013-2018)
• Selective microRNA modification to enhance regulatory T cell function in IBD (Crohn's and Colitis Foundation, 2013-2016)
• Manipulating dendritic cell bias for the treatment of Crohn's disease (Crohn's and Colitis Foundation, 2010-2012)

As an educator, Dr. Collins serves as Module Coordinator for several key courses including Drug Discovery & Development I, Molecular Basis of Disease, and Pharmacology: Biomedical Science. He also supervises PhD and MSc students, guiding the next generation of researchers in immunology and gastrointestinal disease. His active participation in the Irish Society of Immunology Executive Committee since March 2021 demonstrates his engagement with the broader immunological research community. His laboratory at the Conway Institute continues to produce high-impact research bridging basic immunological mechanisms with translational applications for inflammatory bowel disease treatment.