Research

Overview

Our research spans the full translational spectrum from laboratory-based molecular and cellular studies through to investigator-led clinical trials and population-level outcomes research with a focus on surgical oncology, vascular surgery, medical devices and surgical education. We work in close partnership with University Hospital Galway, national collaborators and international networks to generate evidence that directly informs clinical practice and surgical training. Our research culture is collaborative and ambitious, contributing actively to the School of Medicine's research strategy and to Ireland's broader surgical research agenda.

Areas & Themes

Breast Cancer Research: Professor Michael Kerin, Prof. Roisin Dwyer, Dr. Nicola Miller and Dr. Laura Barkley lead a internationally recognised and impactful programme in breast cancer research, spanning laboratory-based molecular and translational studies through to clinical outcomes research. The group has a sustained record of high-impact publications and strong national and international collaborative networks.

Cancer Survivorship & Clinical Trials: Prof. Aoife Lowery leads an active and externally funded research programme focused on cancer survivorship and clinical trials examining long-term patient outcomes, quality of life, and biological and psychosocial determinants of survivorship following cancer treatment

Vascular Disease: Prof. Stewart Walsh leads an active vascular surgery research programme with peer-reviewed funding supporting participation in major international trials such as Warriors

Clinical Trials & Research Methodology: The Discipline has developing infrastructure for investigator-led clinical trials and a strong track record in systematic review and meta-analysis, supporting high-quality evidence synthesis

Environment & Structures

Research is conducted across a network of laboratory, clinical, and translational settings, with faculty embedded in University Hospital Galway and affiliated Saolta University Health Care Group sites, ensuring direct integration between research activity and clinical practice.

The Discipline maintains active links with University of Galway Research Institutes and Centres, including engagement with the Lambe Institute for Translational Research, which provides infrastructure supporting both laboratory-based and clinically-focused programmes.

Collaborative multidisciplinary research teams bring together Surgeons, Oncologists, Pathologists, Statisticians and Scientists, fostering an environment where translational discovery and clinical application are closely aligned.

Industry and national funding body partnerships support ongoing clinical trials and laboratory programmes, with established relationships with the National Breast Cancer Research Institute, Health Research Board, Irish Cancer Society and International Trial Networks.

The Cancer Biobank, located in the Lambe Institute for Translational Research, is a joint initiative with HSE West and North West and University of Galway. It is a research resource of human biological samples and associated personal and health related information for use in cancer research studies. The Cancer Biobank is financially supported by the National Breast Cancer Research Institute with additional support from partner funding agencies.‌ 

Recognition & Innovation

Faculty within the Discipline have received competitive peer-reviewed funding from leading national bodies including the Health Research Board and the Irish Cancer Society, reflecting the quality and relevance of our research programmes.

Our Researchers are regular recipients of awards and commendations at National and International Surgical and Oncology Meetings, recognising both the quality of our outputs and the calibre of our postgraduate researchers.

The Discipline's collaborative Clinical Trials activity and Translational Research Programmes have been recognised through invitations to contribute to international guideline development and multicentre research networks.

Staff

Meet our research team and view their profiles, publications, and projects on the University of Galway Research Portal: