Vice-President for Research and Innovation

Professor Laoise McNamara

Professor McNamara is an internationally recognised research leader and Established Professor at University of Galway, who most recently served as Head of the School of Engineering.

She has led an internationally recognised programme of research in mechanobiology, publishing over 100 peer-reviewed papers, delivering plenary lectures at major international conferences, and contributing invited book chapters. She is the recipient of major competitive awards, including European Research Council grants and Science Foundation Ireland funding, alongside recognition such as the Irish Research Council Researcher of the Year award and the Royal Academy of Medicine in Ireland Silver Medal in Bioengineering. She has also played a key role in advancing medical device innovation through sustained collaboration with multinational industry partners.

Professor McNamara has held a number of roles relevant to shaping research strategy and infrastructure at the University of Galway. As Head of the School of Engineering, she has led major strategic and operational initiatives focused on research excellence and has developed strategic industry partnerships supporting academic recruitment and the establishment of new research centres.

She currently serves as Chair of the European Research Council Starting Grant Panel, is an expert reviewer for major funding agencies across Europe, and acts as a scientific advisor for international research centres. In these roles, she contributes to the assessment and advancement of research excellence at the highest international level.

Email vpresearch (at) universityofgalway.ie

 Professor Laoise McNamara, Vice-President for Research & Innovation