Respiratory

The Respiratory research group has a number of areas that it focuses on for clinical and basic science research. This includes Cystic Fibrosis (CF) (Dr. Michael O’Mahony), Bronchiectasis (Dr. Robert Rutherford and Dr. Mellissa McDonnell), as well as bronchoscopy and pleural diseases (Dr. David Breen). The research team includes research fellows, a clinical research nurse and nurse specialists.

The CF team has participated in number of landmark clinical trials for new CFTR modulator therapies through the CRF resulting in high impact publications. Current research also focuses on technology solutions to enhance remote care and telehealth for CF patients. 

Dr. Rutherford and Dr. McDonnell have an extensive research interest in Bronchiectasis over the last number of years and have published frequently in this area. They are currently exploring a number of mechanisms that lead to worsening outcomes in bronchiectasis and have a particular interest in the role of reflux.

Dr. Breens focus is on bronchoscopy and pleural diseases with a planned future collaboration with a spin out company from NUI Galway Bio-innovate on novel drainage systems for pleural effusions. He has also mentored clinical fellows attached to his unit including Dr. M Ahmed who completed his MD thesis along with a number of successful papers.