University alliance to foster impactful translational research

Posted on: 03 December 2023

A newly established, innovative alliance of universities across the island of Ireland aims to strengthen the partnership between scientists and clinicians, fostering impactful research that translates seamlessly from the laboratory to patient care through the development of new diagnostics, therapies, and medical interventions.

Translational Medicine Alliance Ireland (TMAI) is organised as a decentralised collaborative alliance of 10 Irish Universities with specialised centres in the field of translational medicine.

(L-R) Dr. Liam Lewis;  Dr. Pilib Ó Broin (UG); Prof. Patricia Maguire (UCD); Ms. Frances Fitzgerald MEP; Prof. Aideen Long (TCD); Prof. Mark Lawler (QUB); Dr. Martin O’Neill (ATU); Dr. John Mulvihill (UL); Dr. Mary Deasy (TU Dublin).

Collaboration in translational medicine serves as a catalyst for transforming scientific discoveries into practical applications that directly benefit patients and society. By pooling National University resources, knowledge, and skills, researchers and clinicians can generate novel ideas and develop innovative therapies or diagnostics more efficiently than working in isolation. TMAI offers a platform for researchers and institutions engaged in translational medicine, providing access to resources, expertise, and collaborative opportunities that can significantly enhance the impact and success of translational research efforts.

The Alliance will enable collaborative research projects, fostering a multidisciplinary approach to complex biomedical challenges and leading to accelerated discoveries and innovations. Equally of significance is that the Alliance will amplify the impact of research through collective efforts, elevating the visibility and reputation of the national biomedical research community on the global stage.

Senator Frances Fitzgerald (R) and Prof. Aideen Long at the launch of TMAI

Prof. Aideen Long, Director, TMAI and Trinity Translational Medicine Institute (TTMI) at Trinity College stated:

‘The establishment of TMAI is a testament to the belief that collectively forging connections, building bridges, and creating a network of translational research institutes will achieve far more than any one of us could envision alone - in terms of pushing new boundaries, breaking barriers, and realising impactful clinical research outcomes that will ultimately benefit patients.’

The formation of an alliance of universities to tackle translational medicine challenges is a visionary and strategic approach underpinned by a formal inter-institutional collaboration agreement that can significantly enhance the impact and efficiency of translational research. The Alliance brings together the strengths of multiple institutions, creating a collaborative ecosystem to address the complex hurdles associated with translating scientific discoveries into practical healthcare applications and interventions.

THE EUROPEAN CONTEXT

The national benefits of strengthening partnerships and collaborations across the EU are vast and multifaceted; and TMAI is well placed to break down silos between scientific discovery and clinical application.

TMAI is not just a resource platform; it is a testament to the power of collaboration, the synergy of diverse expertise, and turning scientific knowledge into real-world solutions. TMAI’s ambitions extend to forging enduring partnerships with the European Infrastructure for Translational Medicine (EATRIS), institutions, researchers, and organisations across Europe and beyond. This interconnected network will not only amplify Ireland's influence on the global stage but will also foster knowledge exchange and enrich the fabric of our international collaborations. However, the global nature of research means that Irish researchers often face intense international competition for funding. Staying competitive requires not only quality research proposals but also strategic positioning within the global research community and this is the real benefit of TMAI and its links with EATRIS and its expansive network.

EATRIS brings together resources and services for research communities to translate scientific discoveries into benefits for patients.

List of TMAI members:

Atlantic Technological University

Munster Technological University

National University of Ireland, Galway

The Queen’s University, Belfast

Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland

Technological University Dublin

Trinity College Dublin

University College Cork

University College Dublin

University of Limerick

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