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Powering a Global MedTech Hub

State-of-the-art research infrastructure in Galway is transforming cardiac research.

Three people looking through a CT scanner
Members of the cardiovascular research team in Galway. From left to right: Clinical nurse manager Eileen Coen, Prof Faisal Sharif, and CV research manager Ruth McLoughlin. Image credit: Martina Regan

The installation of a dedicated CT scanner and cardiac catheterisation lab at the University of Galway and Galway University Hospital has positioned the region as a go-to destination for clinical trials globally.

This project, led by Faisal Sharif, Professor of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine and Innovation, integrates advanced imaging techniques and AI to predict cardiovascular events at an earlier stage. These approaches enable personalised treatment strategies, leading to improved cardiovascular outcomes for patients.

 

Photo of Professor Faisal Sharif
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This investment positions the University of Galway as a global leader in cardiovascular clinical trials, making Galway a hub not only for medical device innovation and manufacturing but also for clinical trials previously conducted overseas.

Professor Faisal Sharif
University of Galway and Galway University Hospital

Previously, medical devices manufactured in Galway were tested abroad, incurring high costs and limiting Ireland’s role in device validation and clinical testing. This dedicated infrastructure now allows trials to be hosted locally, better positioning Galway to attract multinational medical device and pharmaceutical companies and retain specialist talent. This research infrastructure allows patients to have access to novel treatments which are not yet commercially available. Since its establishment, the 16-person team have supported:

    • a cholesterol-lowering drug trial,
    • first-in-human heart sensor study for advanced heart failure,
    • novel coronary stents/balloons,
    • medical device-based blood pressure lowering trials,

entirely funded by trial sponsors.

Members of the cardiovascular research team. Left to right: Helen Burke, Jack Colbert, Paolo del Sole, Darragh Murphy, Despina Abrasheva, Aoife Smith, Emma Mullally, Chike Aduba, Chitra Anthony, Ruth Mc Loughlin, Faisal Sharif, Eileen Coen. Image credit: Martina Regan

Members of the cardiovascular research team. Left to right: Helen Burke, Jack Colbert, Paolo del Sole, Darragh Murphy, Despina Abrasheva, Aoife Smith, Emma Mullally, Chike Aduba, Chitra Anthony, Ruth Mc Loughlin, Faisal Sharif, Eileen Coen. Image credit: Martina Regan

This dedicated infrastructure is helping to position Galway as a global leader in cardiovascular research, complementing the long-standing strengths of the region in device manufacturing. This reflects Ireland’s broader goals of strengthening research and innovation capacity within the life sciences, supporting long-term, research-led economic growth.

Partners:                      Co-funded by the HSE

Find out more:          The Irish TimesThe Irish Times

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