Brain Tumour Awareness Week: meet Dr Oliviero Gobbo and learn about his work
Posted on: 27 October 2026
Dr Gobbo is Assistant Professor in Pharmaceutical Sciences at Trinity, and co-founder of the Irish Neuro-Oncology Society. He believes innovative approaches in nanomedicine may lead to improved treatments in the future.
“From my small town in Italy, I never imagined that one day I would become an academic at Trinity,” says Dr Gobbo. “I am what is known as a ‘first-generation’ university student, and achieving a PhD at Trinity remains one of the proudest moments of my life.
“My interest in brain cancer began more than 10 years ago when I realised that patients diagnosed with aggressive brain tumours still have very limited treatment options. That reality motivated me to pursue a career focused on finding better therapies for these devastating diseases. I believe that innovative drug delivery technologies, particularly nanomedicine, can help overcome some of the barriers that prevent medicines from reaching tumours effectively.
“When I'm not teaching Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences students, you’ll usually find me working with the team in the laboratory, developing new drug delivery systems for brain cancer, lung cancer, and obesity. A significant part of my day is also spent reading the latest scientific research, writing grant applications and papers, and mentoring the next generation of scientists.
“Academic life involves much more than research and teaching. I co-ordinate a Master's programme, organise our School seminar series, and serve as Director of Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion. Trinity has a strong commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment, and I'm proud to contribute to that mission.
“One of the highlights of my career has been co-founding the Irish Neuro-Oncology Society with Dr Kate Connor and Ms Almudena Moreno Borrallo. Our mission is to unite researchers, clinicians, healthcare professionals, charities, patients, and advocates from across the island of Ireland to accelerate brain tumour research and improve outcomes for all those affected.
“Brain tumours place an enormous burden on patients, families, and healthcare systems. In several countries, they are one of the leading causes of cancer-related death among young adults. The most aggressive forms, such as glioblastoma, currently have no cure, underscoring the critical need for greater investment in research and improved access to innovative treatments. Our team sees first-hand the urgent need for new treatments and greater support for the brain tumour community.
Dr Oliveiro Gobbo in Italy, after an interview about his participation in a vintage bike race in Italy that raised funds for research and awareness.
“To help raise awareness and funds, a group of friends and I recently completed a 135 km vintage cycling race through Tuscany in temperatures of almost 30°C. We undertook the challenge in support of Brain Tumour Ireland and the invaluable work the charity does for patients and families affected by brain tumours.
“Outside of work, I am passionate about endurance sport and have completed 2 Ironman 70.3 races. I enjoy the discipline and resilience that triathlon teaches, qualities that are equally valuable in research. I also love travelling and have visited more than 50 countries, while living in five different nations. And whenever I find the time, I return to one of my favourite books, Ulysses.”