Trinity’s addiction expert joins Europe’s frontline in drug science
Posted on: 25 November 2025
Jo Hanna Ivers, Associate Professor in Addiction and Associate Dean of Civic Engagement at Trinity College, has been appointed to the Scientific Committee of the European Union Drugs Agency (EUDA).
The task of the Scientific Committee is to assist the Management Board and the Director of the EUDA by delivering an opinion on any scientific matter concerning the Centre's activity which the Management Board or the Director may submit to it.
This high-level role further positions Trinity at the heart of Europe’s science-policy interface on drugs, addictions and recovery. It highlights our institution’s leadership in shaping evidence-based responses across the continent.
Professor Ivers leads the Neurobehavioural Addiction Research Group and is Director of the M.Sc. in Addiction Recovery at Trinity, bringing national and international expertise to bear.
Her new appointment means that Trinity’s work in addiction in particular, will play a further role in anticipating emerging threats, advising policy, and driving innovation in addiction science at the European level.
Dr Ivers’s involvement will include:
While the detailed mandate and working arrangements vary, typical roles on the EUDA Scientific Committee include reviewing research priorities, advising on methodological standards, identifying priority emerging issues, evaluating scientific work undertaken by the agency, offering strategic guidance on how data can inform policy, and connecting national research communities with EU-wide systems. Jo-Hanna will bring the perspective of addiction science, in public health.
She said:
“I am honoured to join the EUDA Scientific Committee. Addiction research must translate into real world impact, delivering better care, better outcomes and stronger communities. Public health is effectively community health, and I am proud to bring Trinity’s leadership in Public Health and addiction science to the EUDA. This role will help shape evidence based policy that strengthens prevention, supports recovery and advances population health.”
The appointment comes at a pivotal time as Europe faces evolving drug markets, new substances, and complex addiction challenges.
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