Thilo Kroll

Professor Thilo Kroll serves as a joint Full Professor of Health Systems Management at University College Dublin's School of Nursing, Midwifery and Health Systems. With over three decades of experience since 1992, he has established himself as a leading researcher in the social dimensions of health and wellbeing, with particular expertise in public health perspectives on disability. Previously, he held positions as Professor of Disability and Public Health Research at the University of Dundee (2013-2016) and as Senior Lecturer/Reader at the same institution (2005-2013). His academic journey began with a Diploma in Psychology from Christian Abrechts University of Kiel, Germany, followed by a PhD from the University of Bremen, Germany.

Professor Kroll's educational background includes:

• Diploma in Psychology from Christian Abrechts University of Kiel, Germany
• Doctor of Philosophy from the University of Bremen, Germany

Professor Kroll's research program spans a wide range of interdisciplinary topics focused on individual and system-level change processes related to public, physical and mental health and social participation. Much of his work centers on socially marginalized groups, particularly people with disabilities and survivors of violence. His research has examined service access, co-design of community-based health and support services, inclusive practices of health promotion, and equitable participation in research and service development. Methodologically, he employs qualitative, survey, mixed, experimental, and action research methods. His academic collaborations extend across health and social care, psychology, geography, design, architecture, and urban planning disciplines.

His recent publications demonstrate a strong emphasis on patient and public involvement (PPI) in healthcare research, with particular attention to marginalized populations including people with disabilities, those experiencing homelessness, and individuals with rare diseases. His work frequently employs co-design methodologies and systems thinking approaches to address complex health challenges. There's a clear trajectory toward more participatory research designs that actively involve end-users in shaping healthcare solutions, reflecting his commitment to inclusive research practices and addressing health inequalities.

Professor Kroll has secured significant research funding for projects addressing critical health system challenges. He currently leads the HRB-funded National Network on Public and Patient Involvement in Health and Social Care Research (2021-2026) and participates in the European Rare Diseases Research Alliance (ERDERA) Horizon Europe project (2024-2031). His grant portfolio demonstrates expertise in securing competitive funding for interdisciplinary research that bridges academic inquiry with practical healthcare applications.

Professor Kroll actively contributes to teaching and curriculum development at UCD, with a focus on Systems Thinking in Health and Social Care. He coordinates multiple modules including Systems Thinking in Healthcare, Health Economics, and Health Policy. His teaching philosophy emphasizes practical applications of theoretical concepts to real-world health system challenges, preparing students to address complex healthcare issues through innovative, systems-based approaches.