Preterm Babies Research Projects

Current Research Projects

Leading PI for the following projects is Prof. Eleanor Molloy.

DINOS: DefIning NeOnatal Sepsis – an international real-time Delphi consensus process

It aims to develop an international consensus-based conceptual definition of neonatal sepsis. Using a Real-Time Delphi survey and multi-stakeholder consensus meetings, the project will bring together clinicians, researchers, parents, caregivers and patient/public representatives to support clearer communication, research standardisation and future neonatal sepsis studies. PhD: Dr Dearbhla Byrne, Ms Laura Johnson. Funder: Research Ireland.

NECTAR: Necrotising EnteroColitis and Targeting inflAmmatory Response

The NECTAR project aims to improve the understanding and treatment of necrotising enterocolitis (NEC) in premature babies. By studying early-life health information and blood markers of inflammation, researchers hope to identify babies at risk of bowel and brain injury, develop better treatments, improve survival, and enhance long-term health outcomes. PhD: Dr. Stephen Carroll. Funder: TCD.

PLATYPUS: Preterm infant immunomoduLAtion to Treat sepsis and brain injurY Prevention

Preterm infants have a high risk of infection due to alterations in their immune system that are not completely understood. We study new tests that will help to predict outcomes and responses to treatment and help parents with planning healthcare needs for their baby.  PhD: Dr Dearbhla Byrne. Funder: Research Ireland.

STARFISH: Sustained inflammaTion in preterm infAnts and multioRgan dysfunction correlateS witH long term outcomes 

Preterm infants face high risks of multiorgan dysfunction and neurodevelopmental impairment linked to persistent inflammation. This project follows a detailed preterm cohort to study immune mechanisms, develop definitions and family resources, and build machinelearning tools to predict outcomes and guide targeted followup and future immunomodulatory therapies.  PhD: Dr Philip Stewart. Funder: HRB.

BEACON: Biomarker Evaluation for Accurate and early deteCtion Of Neonatal sepsis – An International Biomarker Validation Study

This study aims to develop a rapid and accurate blood test to diagnose sepsis in premature babies. Early detection of bloodstream infections could reduce delays in treatment, improve outcomes, and minimise unnecessary antibiotic use. The project seeks to provide faster diagnosis than current laboratory tests. Researcher: Dr. Lynne Kelly.

Previous Research Projects

Leading PI for the following projects is Prof. Eleanor Molloy.

GENIE: GEnder and Neonatal Inflammation in prEterm outcomes

Preterm boys experience higher rates of mortality and severe outcomes than girls. This study examines how infection, inflammation, and sex hormones contribute to these differences, aiming to identify mechanisms, develop targeted therapies, improve organspecific care, and create parent resources to enhance prognosis and treatment for vulnerable preterm infants. PhD: Dr. Matthew McGovern. Funder: NCRC.

PRISM: PReterm Infection and SysteMic inflammation and neonatal outcomes.