Who We Are

Welcome to The Irish Association of Pharmacology (IAP), a distinguished organization dedicated to representing Pharmacology and Therapeutics on the island of Ireland. Founded in the mid-1990s by the esteemed late Professor John Feely, a visionary researcher and clinician, the IAP remains committed to fostering the advancement of pharmacology locally and globally.

In 2016, the IAP gained formal recognition as an unincorporated association, solidifying its status as a reputable and influential entity within the field. Building upon the remarkable legacy of Professor Feely, our association strives to honor his ambitions and unwavering dedication to the development of pharmacology.

Our Future Aims

Advancing Pharmacology Research: We wholeheartedly promote both basic and clinical pharmacology research throughout the island of Ireland, fostering scientific discoveries that drive medical advancements and improve patient outcomes.
Facilitating Exchange and Collaboration: We provide a dynamic platform for scientists in Pharmacology & Therapeutics, as well as allied disciplines in research and industry, to exchange knowledge, ideas, and collaborate on innovative projects
Forging International Connections: As a member of esteemed international associations, we open doors to global forums and contacts, facilitating research, development, and fruitful international collaborations for our esteemed members.
Advocacy for Positive Change: By becoming an effective advocate for the field, we champion the interests of pharmacologists and promote policies that drive progress, improve healthcare, and contribute to the betterment of society.

Our Committee

President : Professor Christian Waeber

Prof Christian Waeber, Head of Pharmacology & Therapeutics at University College Cork, is a distinguished researcher with a remarkable career. He began as a Ph.D. student at Novartis Basel, where he characterized the pharmacological profile and signaling pathways of 5-HT1D receptors. Later, he conducted groundbreaking research at Harvard Medical School, investigating the role of sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) receptors in blood vessels and the brain. Prof Waeber’s team has made significant strides in understanding S1P’s impact on cerebrovascular disorders, diabetes, atherosclerosis, pulmonary hypertension, and stroke recovery. Their work with fingolimod has shown promising results in protecting the brain from ischemia-induced damage, potentially revolutionizing stroke treatment.

Vice President: Dr Monica de Gaetano

Monica de Gaetano is an Assistant Professor in Pharmacology and a Principal Investigator of the Diabetes Complications Research Centre (DCRC) at University College Dublin. After obtaining her BSc in the School of Pharmacy in Italy, she moved to Ireland to pursue a PhD in Molecular Medicine and a PD training in Medicinal Chemistry. Her teaching consists in basic and advanced pharmacology, with a focus on cardiovascular and renal pharmacology, and on drug discovery and development, both at undergraduate and postgraduate level. She is an international leader in Resolution Pharmacology, with a long-standing interest in the biology of the monocyte-macrophage-foam cell axis, in the context of progression and regression of atherosclerosis, where she has given an important contribution to characterise the plasticity of such pivotal cell axis. Her research is currently focusing on identifying novel theranostics for chronic macrovascular diseases. She coordinated a translational screening programme, through which she set up an in vitro platform for drug candidate discovery, as well as a robust ex vivo model of atherosclerosis. She has patented two novel molecules with pro-resolving properties in the context of vascular inflammation. Her research group in the UCD Conway Institute is currently focused on tackling the ‘residual inflammatory risk’ in sub-cohorts of diabetes-associated atherosclerotic patients, in order to better tailoring therapeutic interventions.

Secretary : Professor Dermot Cox

Professor Dermot Cox is the Pharmacology Lead at the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland, renowned for his groundbreaking work in platelet-bacteria interactions. With a BSc in Pharmacology from the University College Dublin and a Ph.D. in Immunology from Dublin City University, his international expertise includes six years leading a GPllb/llla antagonist drug project in Japan. As an academic editor for PLOS One and an advisory board member of the Journal of Thrombosis and Haemostasis, Prof. Cox’s contributions to pharmacology are highly esteemed, while his dedication to teaching and consulting for pharmaceutical companies further solidifies his prominent position in the field.

Treasurer : Natalie O’Regan

Natalie O’Regan serves as the Treasurer for the Irish Association of Pharmacologists, bringing a wealth of experience and dedication to the role. As the Executive Assistant in the Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics at University College Cork, Natalie plays a vital role in supporting the department’s operations.With a keen eye for detail and a passion for fostering collaboration within the field of pharmacology, Natalie ensures the financial well-being of the association. Her role as Treasurer involves managing the financial aspects of the organization, contributing to strategic decision-making, and supporting initiatives that advance the goals of the Irish Association of Pharmacologists. Natalie’s commitment to excellence and her integral role in the academic community make her a valuable asset to the association. Her collaborative spirit and administrative expertise contribute to the smooth functioning of the organization and the success of its endeavors.