2013 Press Releases
National Award for Fergus Shanahan
Professor Fergus Shanahan, from University College Cork, has been named this year’s SFI Researcher of the Year at the Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) Science Summit in Athlone.
Professor Shanahan, who is one of the leading international experts in the area of gastrointestinal research, was presented with the award by Mr Seán Sherlock, TD, Minister for Research & Innovation in recognition of his significant contribution to understanding how intestinal bacteria influence both health and disease in the gut and beyond. Professor Shanahan is the current Director of the Alimentary Pharmabiotic Centre (APC) at University College Cork, an SFI funded Research Centre.
In presenting Professor Shanahan with his award, Minister Sherlock said “Professor Shanahan is a truly remarkable individual and an example of the quality and potential that exists in Ireland’s research community. He has worked tirelessly to help put Ireland at the forefront of one of the most important biological research areas in the world right now. His unique pioneering spirit has shone through in his work on the application of the gut microbiota in the food, pharmaceutical and diagnostic industries. He is a true role model for future generations of Irish scientists and I congratulate him wholeheartedly on this award.”
Professor Mark Ferguson, Director General of SFI, said, “SFI is delighted to honour Professor Shanahan with this award. The award recognises his outstanding research in the field of gastroenterology. He has already been recognised worldwide as a leader in this field and it is important that his achievements are also acknowledged and valued here in Ireland. He has shown exceptional leadership in the establishment and expansion of the highly successful APC, gaining significant funding and achieving the ranking of second in the world in probiotic research.”
Professor Shanahan’s work involves the development of new therapies for debilitating gastrointestinal diseases, such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Ulcerative Colitis, and Crohn’s disease. He is also responsible for exploring commercial opportunities in the pharma, biotech and functional food sectors that will help position Ireland at the forefront of these important growth areas. He was recently honoured by the Canadian Association of Gastroenterology with their highest award, the McKenna prize and lectureship