Dr John O’Donoghue is a pioneering researcher at the intersection of health and technology. Based at University College Cork, his work spans global collaborations, digital health innovation, and patient-centred care. From Malawi to AI-driven tele-health, his research aims to make healthcare more accessible, equitable, and responsive worldwide.

The Global Virus Network (GVN) plays an essential role in connecting virologists worldwide to confront emerging and existing viral threats. As the organisation’s Senior Vice President of Marketing, Communications & Public Affairs and contributor to the co-founding of GVN, Nora Samaranayake has been central to shaping GVN’s mission and visibility from the very beginning. This article explores her career journey and shares her insights into the founding, goals, and future direction of GVN.

Dr. Richard Vance is a psychologist and assistant professor at Dublin City University. With a background in cognitive and lifespan psychology, he focuses on ageing, cognitive function, and wellbeing—especially among older adults. He also serves as Chair of the Irish Research Staff Association (IRSA), where he’s worked to improve conditions for researchers across the country together with Dr Rosarii Griffin (Chair UCCRSA) who is also the Secretary of IrishRSA and member of the Board.

This article highlights Mary-Kate O’Regan’s leadership in UCC’s successful HR Excellence in Research evaluation. It details her planning, dedication to supporting researchers at all career stages, and the recognition UCC received for its commitment to researcher development.

In this interview, Dr. Aaron Lim, winner of Research Ireland’s ECR Researcher of the Year Award, discusses his journey from exploring deep-sea coral reefs to developing innovative approaches in seafloor mapping and offshore wind energy. He also shares insights into his current research and his passion for mentoring the next generation of marine scientists.

Rola Abu Zeid–O’Neill, a Palestinian citizen born and raised in Nazareth, is a passionate academic, community worker, and activist, advocating for human rights, Palestinian justice, and fair conditions for researchers. Her work spans education, refugee and International Protection applicants’ health support, and activism against precarity in academia, as well as tireless advocacy for Palestine through peaceful protest, education, and community solidarity.

Meet Miriam Hamilton, Deputy General Secretary of the Irish Federation of University Teachers (IFUT), who brings a wealth of experience from representing workers across health, retail, manufacturing, and beyond. Miriam joined IFUT during the COVID-19 lockdown, stepping into the world of higher education determined to make a difference for staff and researchers alike.

Interview conducted by Megan Moore with Eimear Ni Mhaoldomhnaigh and Christine Chasaide.

As a passionate advocate for health equity, gender equality, and ethical research, Dr Monica O’Mullane reflects on her inspiring academic journey, her recent book publication on healthy cities, other collaborative projects, and her involvement in ethical research.