When inquiring about common threads in the myriad projects he engages in, the researcher points out that his investigations are primarily driven by the need to solve practical issues in healthcare. This involves engaging with the medical fraternity, including doctors, nurses, and patients, to pinpoint issues and streamline processes.
To illustrate, he mentions developing a technology to combat hair loss in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy – an objectively distressing experience. The technology, which is based on simple science, applies pressure to the scalp to prevent anti-cancer drugs from reaching and damaging rapidly growing hair follicles. This innovation is currently undergoing testing under the guidance of a new company.
Moreover, he mentions being involved in a European Research Council-backed osteoarthritis project. With patients suffering chronic pain for years on end, the study aims to create a hydrogel that could be injected into an afflicted joint, such as the knee. The hydrogel would then slowly administer a pain reliever, making it efficient and durable.
He stresses on the importance of interaction and communication as vital tools in identifying effective solutions. Drawing a parallel with learning languages, he underlines the need for immersion, in this case among people who grapple with challenging problems warranting resolution.
An electronics engineering background led this researcher into medical device creation, where he saw firsthand the barriers that researchers encountered in implementing their technologies clinically. This inspired him to gain knowledge about clinical trials and grow the medical technology research sector at Cúram and Galway’s School of Medicine. He also holds an executive director role with BioInnovate Ireland, a program that promotes spending time with clinical teams to spark innovative ideas suitable for investment.
He wishes everyone knew more about the medical innovation sector.
“I believe that in the field of medicine, the significant hurdles are less technical and more about problem identification. Conversations with oncology surgeons often revolve around their desire to inform their patient that they no longer carry the burden of cancer. However, the patient’s perspective might differ. Indeed, a cancer-free status is crucial but other aspects like pain relief or sleep disorders, which affect their daily life, might be of equal or greater concern. It is essential these areas are not overlooked.
The role of the patient’s perspective in your profession – how significant is it?
It’s of immense importance. We are ethically and morally obliged to let the patient’s voice be heard. There is often an underestimation of how economically viable the solutions can be if approached correctly. Let’s consider the issue of hair loss for instance, we had discussions with patients who were investing large sums in wigs, yet no one was addressing the financial burden they had to bear.
What do you do for relaxation and taking breaks from your profession?
Our four-year-old is quite a handful and keeps us occupied. Moreover, my folks own a farmland located in the western part of Ireland. Given the opportunity, I love indulging in farming activities there.”