Stephen Keely

Dr. Stephen Keely is a Senior Lecturer at the School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI), with a focus on molecular medicine and gastrointestinal physiology. He specializes in investigating mechanisms regulating intestinal physiology, particularly the role of bile acids and their receptors (e.g., FXR, TGR5) in health and disease. His research targets intestinal inflammation, cancer, and chronic disorders, with a focus on developing therapeutic strategies involving bile acid receptors and nutraceuticals.

Education: BSc (Hons) and PhD in Pharmacology from University College Dublin (1991, 1996). Postdoctoral training at the University of California, San Diego (1995–2005). Established the Gastroenterology Research Group at RCSI with funding from Science Foundation Ireland and the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America.

Research interests include bile acid signaling, intestinal barrier function, drug delivery, and the pathogenesis of inflammation and cancer in the colon. He has secured over 30 grants, including major funding from Science Foundation Ireland, and leads projects exploring quinoa-derived compounds, FXR agonists, and colonic drug delivery.

Teaching roles include module coordination for 'Gastrointestinal Health,' 'Advanced Therapeutic Technologies,' and 'Renal and Endocrine Biology.' He has supervised numerous PhD/MSc students and serves on editorial boards (e.g., American Journal of Physiology, World Journal of Gastrointestinal Pathophysiology). Active in professional organizations, including the AGA Intestinal Disorders Section and Irish Epithelial Physiology Group.