Decade of Maternal and Child Health Research Celebrated at INFANT, UCC
University College Cork’s INFANT Centre, Ireland’s first translational research hub dedicated entirely to pregnancy, birth, and early childhood, marks over a decade of groundbreaking work. Since its establishment in late 2013, INFANT—The Irish Centre for Maternal and Child Health Research—has been at the forefront of significant breakthroughs that are saving lives and improving outcomes for babies and their families daily, while also shaping perinatal medicine globally.
From its beginnings as a team of eight founding principal investigators, INFANT has evolved into a multidisciplinary powerhouse, now comprising over 100 dedicated professionals, including healthcare practitioners, research scientists, engineers, and support staff. The Centre’s expertise spans diverse fields such as obstetrics, paediatrics, neonatology, neuroscience, nutrition, biomedical engineering, informatics, and artificial intelligence.
A Decade of Impact and Innovation
Since its inception, INFANT has achieved some remarkable milestones:
- Developed innovative technologies to detect brain injuries in newborns, including the creation of the world’s first AI algorithm for seizure detection in infants.
- Contributed to groundbreaking therapies for peanut allergies in children.
- Developed a pioneering device to measure cognitive function in children that is independent of language barriers.
- Spearheaded the establishment of Ireland’s first dedicated network for children’s clinical trials – in4kids
- Supported the Establishment of the National Bereavement Standards within Ireland’s maternity services.
INFANT’s pioneering research has not only advanced maternal and child healthcare in Ireland but has also garnered recognition as a global leader in innovative research and transformative healthcare solutions. Today, the Centre collaborates with over 35 countries and maintains alliances with more than 45 industry partners, driving forward its mission to improve outcomes in pregnancy, birth, and early childhood.
Voices of Leadership
Professor Geraldine Boylan, Director of INFANT, reflects on the Centre’s journey: “INFANT has grown tremendously in scale, ambition, and research excellence over the past decade. Our team’s dedication has led to transformative international breakthroughs that positively impact the lives of babies, children, and families worldwide every day.”
Looking ahead, Professor Boylan highlighted INFANT’s commitment to continued innovation: “We will build on our current breakthroughs, moving them from the lab to clinical application, and spearhead the next wave of research to achieve better outcomes for mothers, babies, and children.
We are incredibly grateful for the support we have received from funding agencies, donors, industry partners, and families since our launch in 2013, and we remain dedicated to enhancing care for this often underserved population. In the coming years, a major focus will be on early detection, prevention, and novel interventions for cerebral palsy (CP), the most common lifelong physical disability acquired in childhood. Additionally, we will strengthen our leadership in children’s clinical trials in Ireland, working closely with parents and young children to ensure our research is directly informed by those we aim to serve.”
A Global Perspective
University College Cork President, Professor John O’Halloran, commended the Centre’s global impact, stating, “INFANT has had a demonstrable global impact over the last 10 years. The excellent research conducted by this multidisciplinary team of experts has enhanced maternal and child health, improved lives, and given hope and confidence to families. The Centre’s strong infrastructure and expertise base will be an integral driver of research excellence at UCC, and position INFANT at the forefront of innovative international research in maternal and child health”
Professor John F. Cryan, UCC Vice President for Research and Innovation said: “I would like to congratulate Professor Geraldine Boylan and the entire INFANT research team on an incredible ten-year journey of world leading innovative research that has had a profound impact on children and their families. The INFANT Research Centre is widely recognised as an international leader in maternal and child healthcare, and as a key strand of the UCC Futures – Children thematic area, INFANT will continue to be at the forefront of transformative research and groundbreaking innovative solutions that will be of benefit to all in society.”
Echoing this sentiment, Professor Helen Whelton, Head of the College of Medicine and Health at UCC, congratulated INFANT on its achievements: “We, at UCC are immensely proud of INFANT’s transformative research contributions to maternal and child health care over the last decade, and we’re very excited to see the next decade of groundbreaking discoveries and advancements that will continue to improve outcomes for mothers, babies and their families worldwide.”
As INFANT looks to the future, its unwavering commitment to pioneering research and improving healthcare outcomes for mothers, babies and children remains resolute. The Centre’s legacy of innovation and collaboration will continue to shape the global landscape of maternal and child health in the decades to come.
Irish Examiner Article by Niamh Griffin: https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/spotlight/arid-41465776.html
Pic Michael Mac Sweeney/Provision
We Are Hiring! Clinical Physiologist (Neurophysiology) 2 x Job Openings
- Clinical Physiologist (Neurophysiology) (First Role)
INFANT is now accepting applications for a Clinical Physiologist (Neurophysiology) to work on the ELEVATE Programme for the Prediction, Early Detection & Intervention in Cerebral Palsy. It is funded by Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) and the Cerebral Palsy Foundation through the SFI Strategic Partnership Programme.
INFANT seeks a Clinical Physiologist (Neurophysiology) with substantial experience in neonatal and paediatric EEG to undertake EEG recordings, Evoked Potentials and other physiological monitoring. The role requires at least 5 years’ experience in Paediatric EEG recording and interpretation. A significant part of this role will require EEG and EP annotation and analysis. Previous research experience is desirable but not essential.
Project Title: ELEVATE
Post Duration: 36 Months
Salary: HSE Neurophysiologist Senior Scale €52,445 – €68,672
For an information package including further details of the post see https://ore.ucc.ie/.
Informal enquiries can be made in confidence to Professor Geraldine Boylan. Email g.boylan@ucc.ie
Applications must be submitted online via the University College Cork vacancy portal (https://ore.ucc.ie/). Queries relating to the online application process should be referred to recruitment@ucc.ie, quoting the job-title and project name.
Candidates should apply, in confidence, before 12 noon (Irish Local Time) on 30th September 2024.
No late applications will be accepted.
Please note that an appointment to posts advertised will be dependent on University approval, together with the terms of the employment control framework for the higher education sector.
UCC is committed to creating and fully embracing an inclusive environment where diversity is celebrated. As a University we strive to create a workplace that reflects the diversity of our student population where people from a wide variety of backgrounds learn from one another, share ideas, and work collaboratively. UCC is committed to being an employer that recognises the value of diversity amongst its staff. We encourage applicants to consult our policies at https://www.ucc.ie/en/edi/policies/ and initiatives at https://www.ucc.ie/en/edi/implementation/ and we welcome applications from everyone, including those who are underrepresented in the protected characteristics set out in our Equal Opportunities & Diversity Policy.
2) Clinical Physiologist (Neurophysiology) (Second Role)
The INFANT Research Centre is now accepting applications for a Research Support Officer – Clinical Physiologist (Neurophysiologist) for the Wave project. This is a three-year project funded by the Enterprise Ireland Disruptive Technology and Innovation Fund (DTIF) in which the INFANT Research Centre is partnered with two industry partners, Cergenx and Evervault. The aim of the overall project is to develop the Newborn Brain Test (NBT), a novel platform to assess newborn brain activity in infants at birth through an automated AI assessment.
INFANT seeks an experienced Clinical Physiologist (Neurophysiology) with substantial experience in neonatal EEG recording and analysis to join the dynamic project team. Two prospective clinical studies will be completed, and historic and prospective EEGs will be analysed.
Project Title: Wave
Post Duration: 3 Years
Salary: HSE Neurophysiologist Senior Scale €52,445 – €68,672
For an information package including further details of the post see https://ore.ucc.ie/.
Informal enquiries can be made in confidence to Prof. Geraldine Boylan Director, INFANT Telephone: +353 (0) 21 4205061 Email: g.boylan@ucc.ie
Applications must be submitted online via the University College Cork vacancy portal (https://ore.ucc.ie/). Queries relating to the online application process should be referred to recruitment@ucc.ie, quoting the job-title and project name.
Candidates should apply, in confidence, before 12 noon (Irish Local Time) on 30th September, 2024.
No late applications will be accepted.
Please note that an appointment to posts advertised will be dependent on University approval, together with the terms of the employment control framework for the higher education sector.
UCC is committed to creating and fully embracing an inclusive environment where diversity is celebrated. As a University we strive to create a workplace that reflects the diversity of our student population where people from a wide variety of backgrounds learn from one another, share ideas, and work collaboratively. UCC is committed to being an employer that recognises the value of diversity amongst its staff. We encourage applicants to consult our policies at https://www.ucc.ie/en/edi/policies/ and initiatives at https://www.ucc.ie/en/edi/implementation/ and we welcome applications from everyone, including those who are underrepresented in the protected characteristics set out in our Equal Opportunities & Diversity Policy.
We Are Hiring! Clinical Nurse Manager
INFANT Research Centre is now accepting applications for an enthusiastic and committed Clinical Nurse Manager to work within the team based at INFANT Cork University Hospital, Cork Maternity Hospital. As a large maternal and child health research centre, our studies include pregnant women and children.
The Clinical Nurse Manager will work on projects related to the Early Detection of newborn brain injury. The Clinical Nurse Manager will be involved in identifying eligible newborns in the neonatal unit and postnatal wards prior to discharge. They will assist the PI in day-to-day management of the research study including obtaining informed consent to participate, data collection and data entry to research database, co-ordinating follow-up appointments, assisting in the high-risk follow-up clinic, and to conduct family surveys. The candidate will also work on several other ongoing INFANT Research Projects.
This is a full time (1FTE) position however part time 2 x 0.5FTE hours will also be considered.
Project Title: Various INFANT projects
Post Duration: 2 Years
Salary: Clinical Nurse Manager 1 Scale (€54,437- €64,109)
For an information package including further details of the post see https://my.corehr.com/pls/uccrecruit/erq_jobspec_version_4.jobspec?p_id=079431
Informal enquiries can be made in confidence to Prof. Geraldine Boylan Director, INFANT Telephone: +353 (0) 21 4205061 Email: g.boylan@ucc.ie
Applications must be submitted online via the University College Cork vacancy portal (https://ore.ucc.ie/). Queries relating to the online application process should be referred to recruitment@ucc.ie, quoting the job-title and project name.
Candidates should apply, in confidence, before 12 noon (Irish Local Time) on 20th September, 2024.
No late applications will be accepted.
Please note that an appointment to posts advertised will be dependent on University approval, together with the terms of the employment control framework for the higher education sector.
UCC is committed to creating and fully embracing an inclusive environment where diversity is celebrated. As a University we strive to create a workplace that reflects the diversity of our student population where people from a wide variety of backgrounds learn from one another, share ideas, and work collaboratively. UCC is committed to being an employer that recognises the value of diversity amongst its staff. We encourage applicants to consult our policies at https://www.ucc.ie/en/edi/policies/ and initiatives at https://www.ucc.ie/en/edi/implementation/ and we welcome applications from everyone, including those who are underrepresented in the protected characteristics set out in our Equal Opportunities & Diversity Policy.
Young voices needed to help shape Ireland’s child health research
- Children’s Health Ireland (CHI) and In4kids, the Irish Network for Children’s Clinical Trials launch new National Young Person’s Advisory Group (YPAG) which invites children and young people to share their voice and help shape child health research in Ireland.
- This launch marks a significant step forward in involving young people in health research and ensuring that their perspectives shape the future of paediatric care in Ireland.
- Funded by the Health Research Board (HRB), In4Kids and CHI Clinical Research Centre will jointly coordinate the Young Person’s Advisory Group.
A new initiative to bring together young people from across Ireland, so that the voices of children are central in shaping child health research and clinical trial design in Ireland is launched.
The national Young Person’s Advisory Group (YPAG) are looking for children and young people aged between 12-18yrs who have experience of chronic health condition, have participated in a clinical trial, have a family member or friend with such experience, and or who have a keen interest in science and research. This YPAG is a collaboration between Children’s Health Ireland (CHI) and In4Kids, the national children’s clinical trials network led by the INFANT Research Centre at University College Cork (UCC).
Transforming children and young people from subjects of research to active research partners
Research indicates that hospitals actively involved in research tend to achieve better patient care outcomes. The creation of this YPAG is based on feedback from children and young people participating in various public and patient involvement (PPI) activities across Ireland, as well as insights gained from established YPAGs in Europe.
Professor Geraldine Boylan, lead for the In4kids network and INFANT, UCC Director, said:
“We are thrilled to launch this initiative, which empowers young people to actively contribute to the future of child health research in Ireland. Their insights and experiences are invaluable in guiding our efforts to improve healthcare outcomes.”
Professor Paul McNally, CHI Director of Research & Innovation and consultant in respiratory medicine, added:
“It is vital for us that the research we support is designed to have a direct impact on the child and family. One of the best ways to do that is to involve children and young people in the design and conduct of that research – as part of the team as opposed to ‘subjects’. The new national YPAG will drive a greater involvement of children and young people in child health research and is a fantastic new development.”
The YPAG will collaborate with healthcare professionals and researchers nationwide, transforming children and young people from subjects of research to active research partners. Funded by the Health Research Board, In4Kids and CHI Clinical Research Centre will jointly coordinate the group, which will become a member of the European network of YPAGs, eYPAGNet.
More information and application details can be found here.
This launch marks a significant step forward in involving young people in health research and ensuring that their perspectives shape the future of paediatric care in Ireland.
INFANT showcases at the Cork Carnival of Science
The INFANT team attended and showcased at the Cork Carnival of Science event in June at Fitzgerald’s Park.
This event is Ireland’s largest outdoor science engagement event and attracts over 25,000+ people each year and is filled with fun STEM activities, shows, workshops and is a fascinating weekend of discovery where families can unearth the magic of science in the great outdoors.
The team showcased all aspects of INFANT’s research in the “Exploration Avenue” which was buzzing with excitement and curiosity as we engaged with lots of children and families.
It was fantastic to have so many visit our stand, the support and enthusiasm really inspires us to continue pushing the boundaries of maternal and child health research.
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CUH and UCC designated World Allergy Organisation Center of Excellence
- CUH and UCC Paediatric Allergy Research group accredited as Center of Excellence by World Allergy Organisation, the first of its kind in Ireland.
- Recognition is a testament to the excellence in clinical care, education and research in Allergy and Immunology at our institutions.
- Allergies can affect all aspects of a child’s daily life, including their health and wellbeing.
Cork University Hospital-University College Cork (CUH-UCC) Paediatric Allergy Research Group at the Irish Centre for Maternal and Child Health (INFANT) has been recognised as a World Allergy Organisation (WAO) Center of Excellence, the first of its kind in Ireland.
The prestigious accreditation recognises CUH-UCC’s position as a global leader in allergy and immunology research, education, and clinical care.
The WAO Centers of Excellence programme aims to intensify and accelerate multidisciplinary scientific and clinical innovation, education, and advocacy worldwide. CUH-UCC joins leading international centres which advance excellence in education, research, and training in allergy, asthma, and clinical immunology.
In Ireland, 10% of children and young adults have more than one allergic or atopic disorder such as food allergy, eczema, asthma and allergic rhinitis. Allergies in childhood can have a major impact on the overall quality of life of a child. In severe cases, children may experience anaphylaxis, a severe and potentially life-threatening reaction. Early identification and management of allergies are crucial in supporting the lifelong health and well-being of children.
Transforming the lives of patients and their families
Operating from Cork University Hospital and University College Cork, the CUH-UCC Paediatric Allergy Research Group aims to transform the lives of patients in Ireland and worldwide. The group’s main focus is on the translational paediatric allergy field, in particular food allergies, analysing how bacteria can affect allergies within the gut, skin and lungs, and quality of life. They are dedicated to discovering new therapies to diagnose food allergies and to prevent allergies from happening in the first place.
The co-directors of the Paediatric Allergy Research Group are Dr Juan Trujillo, Consultant Paediatric Allergist, and Program Director of the Postgraduate Program in Allergy and Clinical Immunology at UCC, and Dr Audrey Dunn-Galvin, Senior Lecturer, Associate Professor Applied Psychology at UCC.
Advancing multidisciplinary research and innovation
Cork University Hospital CEO, David Donegan said: “This accreditation highlights our dedication to providing the highest level of care to paediatric allergy patients. It reinforces our commitment to patient education, advocacy, and innovative therapies.”
The majority of clinical research is undertaken is in CUH, while research spans across UCC including the Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, School of Applied Psychology, School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, and School of Nursing and Midwifery. Active partners and collaborators in the allergy field include the Irish Centre for Maternal and Child Health (INFANT centre), HRB Clinical Research Facility (CRF-UCC), and APC Microbiome Ireland.
The CUH-UCC Paediatric Allergy Research Group also delivers education programmes which attract students from across the globe and pivotal to the WAO accreditation is the success of the online postgraduate programme in Allergy and Clinical Immunology.
Professor Helen Whelton, Head of College of Medicine and Health UCC, said: “This prestigious international recognition underscores UCC’s commitment to excellence in multidisciplinary allergy research and education. It is testament to the hard work and dedication of the team and their ongoing translation of new knowledge to clinical care”.
Professor Geraldine Boylan, Director of the INFANT Research Centre, said: “Being recognised by the WAO signifies the high standard of research being conducted by the Paediatric Allergy Research Group at INFANT, UCC and it opens up doors for strengthening global collaborations and connections.”
CergenX wins UCC Spin-out Company of the Year
INFANT, UCC spin-out company CergenX, won “UCC Spin-out Company of the Year” at the 2023 UCC Research and Innovation Awards.
CergenX is a MedTech company founded in 2021 from INFANT, University College Cork. Its ambition is to make AI-powered brain health monitoring part of standard newborn screening for all infants at birth. Using AI technology, the team is developing a brain screener to screen for abnormal brain activity in newborn infants and support early interventions by a medical team. Early detection and intervention are critical for improved outcomes and quality of life.
UCC is an internationally competitive, research-led university that plays a key role in the development of Ireland’s knowledge-based economy and provides the insight and understanding on the challenges facing our society. The UCC Research and Innovation Awards embrace this excellence in research, innovation, and entrepreneurial activity, across the entire university research community and from all disciplines.
Researchers were awarded across twenty-two categories, six of which recognise specific achievements in entrepreneurship and innovation.
Professor John F. Cryan, UCC Vice President for Research and Innovation at UCC said: “Congratulations to all awards recipients at this year’s UCC Research and Innovation Awards. The standard of nominations across all award categories was indicative of the exceptional level of research and innovation that takes place throughout the University. Our annual Research and Innovation Awards celebrate those who have demonstrated exceptional creativity, pushed boundaries, and raised the national and international research profile of our institution.”
The awards are sponsored by PurdyLucey, one of Ireland’s top European Intellectual Property (IP) firms working across Irish, UK, European, US and international markets, and specialising in Life Science, Food Tech, Med Tech, High-Tech and Engineering projects.
Dr Cathal O’Connor Awarded The William Stokes Award
Dr Cathal O’Conor, INFANT PhD student & Irish Clinical Academic Training (ICAT) Programme fellow won The William Stokes Award which is awarded by the Trainees Committee in Royal College of Physicians of Ireland. It recognises research of the highest standards carried out by Trainees in Higher Specialist Training or International Clinical Fellowship Programme.
He is the second INFANT, ICAT fellow to receive this prestigious award, Dr Peter Barrett won it in 2019.
Dr O’Connor’s PhD – the ‘assessing sleep in infants with atopic dermatitis’ (SPINDLE) study which was performed in the INFANT research centre in University College Cork assesses sleep and neurodevelopment in infants with early onset atopic dermatitis (‘eczema’) by longitudinal evaluation.