South East Technological University’s (SETU) Ocular Therapeutics Research Group (OTRG) has been honoured with the Research and Development Achievement Award at the 2024 Irish Pharma Industry Awards.
The award, presented on 30 October, celebrates excellence in R&D within the pharmaceutical sector and recognises the OTRG’s pioneering contributions to industry innovation and scientific advancement in ocular therapeutics.
Prof Marie Claire Van Hout, Vice President for Research, Innovation and Impact at SETU, commended the ORTG TEAM OTRG, stating, “This award is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our researchers at OTRG and in the PMBRC, who are making significant strides in treatment options for ocular diseases and vision health. Their work not only drives forward SETU’s research agenda, but also supports Ireland’s reputation as a hub for pharmaceutical innovation.”
The OTRG is the largest research group within the Pharmaceutical and Molecular Biotechnology Research Centre (PMBRC) and seeks to develop novel treatment options for various chronic and acute diseases of the eye.
This is achieved by developing new nano- and microformulations, investigating novel therapeutics and designing innovative drug delivery platforms to improve patient outcomes and quality of life issues for a range of ophthalmic conditions. As expertise in the group is expanding, these advancements have been applied to other pressing societal challenges that include Covid-19 and antimicrobial resistance. Situated on the Cork Road Campus in Waterford city, the research group has a growing network that spans the EU, UK, US, and Canada, and access to an 800m² state-of-the-art research facility with a multidisciplinary team within the PMBRC.
Dr Laurence Fitzhenry, Founder and Principal Investigator of the OTRG and recipient of the award, expressed his delight, saying “This recognition at the Pharma Industry Awards is a testament to the collaborative efforts within the OTRG, which would not be possible without the dedication and leadership of our Group Manager, Tess Ames. Alongside the hard work of our researchers, the support from PMBRC Manager Dr. Niall O'Reilly, and the backing of the SETU Department of Science, we are making strides in developing therapies that contribute to Ireland’s vision health research. We’re honoured by this award and look forward to continuing our work to improve patient outcomes in ocular health."
The OTRG receives funding from various sources, including European Funding Agencies, national funding agencies, local and national industrial partners, and SETU. A key aspect of the OTRG is its efforts to bridge the gap between pre-clinical, lab-based research, and the communities living with ocular disease. By working with clinicians, patient advocacy organisations, population health experts, and scientists across industry and academia, the group has established itself as a driving force in public involvement and engagement in research activities in Ireland.
This award highlights the impact of OTRG’s research on vision health research in Ireland, advancing therapies that improve patient outcomes and positioning Ireland as a leader in innovative solutions for ocular health challenges.
