Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics Research Areas

Pharmacology is the science that examines how chemicals interact with living systems to influence normal or abnormal biological functions. It is central to modern medicine, exploring how drugs are discovered, how they act, and how they can be used safely and effectively to prevent or treat disease. The field includes drug composition and properties, mechanisms of action, therapeutic applications, toxicology and the development of new treatments.

Within pharmacology, therapeutics focuses on applying this knowledge to patient care. It covers the design, selection and administration of medicines and links laboratory discoveries with real world healthcare. 

Research at University College Cork

University College Cork is a globally oriented research led university that addresses the challenges and opportunities of our time. As one of Ireland’s leading research institutions, UCC drives innovation, supports a knowledge based economy and works to improve health and wellbeing worldwide. 

Through collaboration, advanced facilities and strong links with industry and healthcare partners, our department contributes to discoveries that inform clinical practice and shape the future of medicine. 

Research Facilities and Location

The Departments core research activities are located at two adjacent sites on the main University campus:  in the newly constructed, purpose built, Western Gateway Building and in the Cavanagh Pharmacy Building.  Purpose-built spaces incorporate in-house cell culture, microscopy, flow cytometry and molecular biology facilities, in addition to more traditional in vitro pharmacological techniques. Furthermore, the department developed very recently a state-of-the-art haemodynamic unit allowing for the characterisation of cardiac and blood pressure parameters in rodents