Conway Institute officially opened

The Conway Institute for Biomolecular and Biomedical Research was opened by An Tánaiste, Mary Harney TD, on 11 September. The €90 million research facility will serve as a national resource for researchers to create knowledge that enhances Ireland's position in medical and scientific research. 

Dr Dorothy McGeeney, daughter of Professor Edward Joseph Conway, makes a presentation to An Tánaiste, Mary Harney TD, at the official opening of the Conway Institute, observed by Cllr Trevor Matthews, Cathaoirleach of Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council. 

The Institute is a multi-disciplinary centre named after Professor E J Conway, who held the first Chair of Biochemistry and Pharmacology in UCD. Its mission is to promote knowledge, health and economic advancement through excellence in biomolecular and biomedical sciences. 

The 11,300 sq m facility will provide a research environment to advance the treatment of diseases such as cancer, diabetes, Alzheimer's, heart disease and arthritis. Developing research networks encompassing other leading universities, the Institute will also provide a crucial infrastructure to increase the attractiveness of Ireland as a base for research and development in biotechnology and related industries. 

Speaking at the opening ceremony, the President, Dr Cosgrove, said Science is a public activity, supported by public and charitable funds and conducted in public trust. "The present state and future development of science depends upon the ongoing support of the people, through their Government," he said. "This is an appropriate time, as we see vision translated into reality, to recognise the leadership and support offered by you, Tánaiste, and others in public life. We in turn are committed to maximising the return on this unprecedented investment, generating a social and economic dividend in health, education and the growth of knowledge-based bio-industry." 

The building was funded in partnership between the Higher Education Authority and Atlantic Philanthropies, under the Programme for Research in Third-level Institutions, and Dr Cosgrove acknowledged the continuing commitment of the State and the donor to creating a research infrastructure, which will allow Irish science to have global impact. "You will see that our researchers not only have laboratories fitted and equipped to the highest standards, they also have a dynamic and exciting place to work," he said. 

The Tánaiste described the Institute as 'a key infrastructural investment in the Life Sciences/Biotechnology sector. "It is part of the infrastructure needed in delivering Ireland's strategic objective of developing world class competence and businesses built around these technologies," she said. Denis Brosnan, Chair of the Conway Board of Management, said the Institute will be internationally recognised as an important centre for research in several key areas. "It will have a reputation for excellence in teaching and training," he said. "It will form close and productive relationships with industry and will be acknowledged by the public as an important contributor to our social economic development." 

Dr Philip Nolan, Director of the Institute, said the investment will play 'a crucial role' in shaping Ireland's social and economic future in terms of science, health, education and the growth of a knowledge economy.