PROFESSOR GRÁINNE O’KANE APPOINTED DIRECTOR OF UCD CANCER

Professor Gráinne O’Kane steps in as the new Director of the UCD Cancer Cluster, succeeding Professor Michaela Higgins, who has led the cluster for the past three years. The appointment comes as O’Kane has also assumed the role of the inaugural Pat Smullen Chair in Pancreatic Cancer at UCD, marking a major milestone for cancer research in Ireland.

The dual leadership role reflects Professor O’Kane’s deep commitment to advancing cancer research. In her new capacity, she will continue her clinical work at St Vincent’s University Hospital, while also expanding the cluster’s impact as a national and international hub for cancer research and clinical trials.

Building on a Strong Foundation

Professor Michaela Higgins, a prominent figure in Irish oncology, established and led the UCD Cancer Cluster since 2022. Under her guidance, the cluster became a centre of excellence for clinical research, significantly increasing the number of patients with access to clinical trials and building an effective multidisciplinary research team across UCD, the Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, and St Vincent’s University Hospital. 

“Michaela has left an incredible legacy,” said Professor O’Kane. “She positioned the UCD Cancer Cluster as a key player in global cancer research, and I am honoured to carry that vision forward. With strong foundations in place, we’re now ready to further expand our reach and impact.”

Professor Higgins will remain involved as principal investigator at UCD Cancer Cluster, supporting its continued growth and development in breast cancer research. “Gráinne’s expertise, passion, and vision make her the ideal leader for the next phase of the UCD Cancer Cluster. I am excited to see the progress she will bring and the impact that this will have on patients under our care.”

A Transformative Role in Pancreatic Cancer Research

In parallel with her new leadership of the UCD Cancer Cluster, Professor O’Kane has been appointed the Pat Smullen Chair in Pancreatic Cancer at UCD, a position jointly funded by Cancer Trials Ireland’s Pat Smullen Pancreatic Cancer Fund and the HSE’s National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP).

“This is far more than a job or a title for me,” said Professor O’Kane. “Pancreatic cancer has long been under researched and underfunded. Through this role, we have a real chance to shift that narrative, to improve survival outcomes and bringing hope to patients who have had very few options.”

Future Vision for the UCD Cancer Cluster

With Professor O’Kane at the helm, the UCD Cancer Cluster is set to enhance its role as a national leader in cancer trials and a beacon of innovation in cancer research and treatment.

“We’re entering an exciting era in cancer research,” O’Kane said. “At UCD, we have the talent, the infrastructure, the partnerships, and the ambition to lead globally while improving care locally.”