Irish Royal College of Surgeons announce new research strategy

The group representing surgeons in Ireland has announced a new strategy aimed at increasing the transfer of research to the market.

The new plan, revealed by the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI), is titled ‘Improving Human Health – RCSI’s Strategy for Excellence in Translational Research 2014-2020′ and encourages greater co-operation been research institutes and private firms in order to commercialise breakthroughs. The strategy will also focus on harnessing more funding from Horizon 2020.

In comments carried in the Irish Times, Professor Ray Stallings, director of research at the college, said: “The plan is to make it much easier for industry to engage with the college. We will be taking a much more proactive approach to making links with companies.”

According to Damien English, Irish Minister of State for Skills, Research and Innovation, 400 scientists and clinical researchers are already undertaking investigations in RCSI’s institute. Rawlings added that it was important for Ireland to continue focusing on the research agenda due to the opportunities of job creation, forming new companies and developing new healthcare treatments, despite decreased research budgets.