Anatomy

Welcome to the Discipline of Anatomy

Anatomy sits at the foundation of medicine and biomedical science. Our Discipline is committed to delivering excellence in both education and research across all levels, from cellular structure to whole-body systems, and innovation in the anatomical sciences. We provide a dynamic supportive environment for students, educators, and researchers, fostering critical thinking, and a deep understanding of human biology in health and disease.

Our mission is to deliver high-quality, research-informed education. We place strong emphasis on collaboration, working closely with colleagues across the School of Medicine, our healthcare partners, and international networks to ensure our work remains relevant, impactful, and forward-looking.

Innovation is central to what we do. From integrating digital technologies and modern imaging approaches into teaching, to contributing to cutting-edge research, we aim to equip our students and partners with the knowledge and skills needed for a rapidly evolving biomedical landscape.

Through the Anatomy Imaging and Microscopy Facility, we deliver leadership in advanced biological imaging along with enabling cutting-edge research and hands-on training in state-of-the-art technologies.

We are deeply grateful to those who donate their bodies to medical science, an extraordinary contribution that makes possible the education of future healthcare professionals and advances in research.

Whether you are interested in studying or working with us, or learning more about body donation, we warmly welcome you. We hope you find our website informative.

About Us

The Discipline of Anatomy at the University of Galway provides a comprehensive hub for anatomical education, specialist training, and research support across the biomedical and health sciences. We contribute to a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, equipping students with the knowledge and practical skills essential for careers in healthcare, research, and industry. Our honours pathway in anatomy offers a distinctive opportunity to study human structure in a comprehensive, whole-body context, an approach that remains relatively uncommon within undergraduate education in Ireland and supports strong foundations for clinical and biomedical careers.

Our expertise spans human anatomy, histology, embryology, and advanced imaging approaches. A key component of our activity is the delivery of hands-on, high-quality teaching alongside access to specialist facilities, including our imaging and microscopy platforms, which support both education and interdisciplinary research collaborations.

The Discipline also plays an important role in enabling research across the University, providing technical expertise, training, and partnership opportunities to investigators working across diverse areas of science and medicine. Our approach is grounded in strong academic standards, respect for donors and learners, and a commitment to continuous development.

Visitors can expect a professional, supportive environment, with opportunities to engage in teaching, collaborative research, and advanced or specialist training.

Contact Information

Head of Discipline: Prof. Peter Dockery

For general inquiries, please contact our administrative office:

Discipline Administrator: Fidelma Gallen
Email: anatomy@universityofgalway.ie
Phone: 091 49 2180
Office Location if applicable: Human Biology Building, University of Galway, University Road, Galway, Ireland