Cancer Research @UCC and Breakthrough Cancer Research marked a significant milestone in their collaboration with a special Philanthropy Impact Showcase, celebrating five years of pioneering advancements in cancer research.

The event, held on Wednesday, November 20th, highlighted the profound impact of the Professor Gerald O’Sullivan Chair in Cancer Research, established in memory of Breakthrough’s founder and held by Professor Roisin Connolly since 2019.

This impactful partnership between Breakthrough Cancer Research, Ireland’s leading cancer research charity, and University College Cork has catalysed cutting-edge research and advanced clinical applications to benefit people with some of the most challenging and low-survival cancers, including ovarian, liver, lung, stomach, brain, oesophageal, and pancreatic cancers.

The event began with an opening address by Kerry Bryson from the UCC Development Office, followed by UCC President Professor John O’Halloran and Professor Helen Whelton, Head of the College of Medicine and Health, who reflected on the remarkable achievements made possible by Breakthrough’s support.

Professor Roisin Connolly, the Gerald O’Sullivan Chair in Cancer Research, presented key milestones achieved over the last five years before presenting our CEO Orla Dolan with the Cancer Research @UCC Impact Report (2019–2024), summarising the transformative outcomes of this partnership.

Speaking at the event, Orla Dolan, CEO of Breakthrough Cancer Research, emphasised the charity’s commitment to funding innovative research:
‘As a funder of research into low survival cancers our remit is to find the best of the best across Ireland. We are currently supporting over 165 researchers across this island, many of whom are here in UCC and who were awarded funding via a very competitive process, solely on the strength of their ideas.’

Professor Connolly expressed her gratitude for the support that has empowered the integration of cutting-edge science into clinical practice:
‘I am deeply grateful to Breakthrough Cancer Research for their support which has elevated cancer research in our region and enabled us to bring cutting-edge science closer to patient care. This event highlights the transformative power of translational research.’

The evening concluded with a tour of UCC’s state-of-the-art research facilities, offering attendees an exclusive look at the groundbreaking work conducted by UCC’s dedicated researchers. Guests were given a behind-the-scenes view of the labs, showcasing how their support directly contributes to advancements in cancer treatment and care.


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