Researching Endometriosis – NUI Galway

Dr Siobhán Kelleher and Sinéad Hughes are researchers in the Translational Medical Device Laboratory in National University of Ireland, Galway, developing health technologies to address
unmet clinical needs in female health. They have received commercialisation funding from Enterprise Ireland to develop a non-hormonal treatment for endometriosis. They are also one of
thirteen teams selected by Science Foundation Ireland to compete in the Artificial Intelligence for Societal Good Challenge. Their team will develop a non-invasive digital biomarker for endometriosis
by measuring disease-specific symptoms and applying advanced machine learning techniques. This disruptive technology will end the diagnostic delay for endometriosis.

Sinéad has extensive experience in research and development of novel medical technologies from early concept to product launch. She has worked in both large corporates and small start-up companies (Stryker, Alta Science and Vetex Medical) where her work ensures that the patient is placed front and centre of solution development. Sinéad has a Masters in Engineering from UCD and has completed a post graduate diploma in medical device innovation in NUI Galway. Sinéad believes that everyone has the right to lead a happy and healthy life and is driven to make a positive impact for those living with endometriosis.

Siobhán has over 20 years senior leadership experience in the areas of clinical trials (ICON Plc.), commercial access, business development and marketing in leading multi-nationals (Novartis, Wyeth and MSD).
She has a unique education and training background spanning scientific (BSc; MSc in Cell Biology and PhD in Pharmacology from University College Dublin), clinical (MSc in Health Policy and Health Services Management from Trinity College Dublin) and commercial (Smurfit PGC; BioInnovate PG. Dip) education. She is a strong advocate of patient and public involvement (PPI) in research.

Siobhán and Sinéad are delighted to partner with the Endometriosis Association of Ireland to develop technologies ‘with’ women with endometriosis not just ‘for’ women with endometriosis.