People involved in ground-breaking research projects around the country were honoured at the Irish Cancer Society Research Awards on Thursday, February 20th at the Irish Cancer Society Head Office in Ballsbridge, Dublin.
In 2024 alone, the Irish Cancer Society funded over 25 new research projects and over 180 cancer researchers across the country.
The event, hosted by the Irish Cancer Society’s Head of Research, Dr Claire Kilty, celebrates some of the work in cancer research being carried out by nominees around Ireland, funded by the Irish Cancer Society.
Among those to claim top honours was Chantal Halley, who scooped the Support Staff of the Year Award title. This award is to recognise an individual who on a daily basis goes above and beyond the call of duty to support the cancer research being carried out across the country.
Welcoming her Support Staff of the Year award, recognising her work as an Engagement Research Manager at the All-Island Cancer Research Institute (AICRI), Chantal, from Kilmacthomas and now living in Tramore, said: “I’ve never really thought of myself as the kind of person who wins awards. My focus has always been on the work, on supporting my team, patient advocates, PhD students, and Postdoctoral Fellows within the AICRIstart programme, making sure they have what they need to succeed.
“To be recognised for something that I genuinely do, day in and day out, is incredible. This is the work that matters to me, and to have that recognised by the Irish Cancer Society is an honour.
This award is also an important recognition for everyone who works in similar roles. Research is not a straight path. It relies on many moving parts, and each of us plays a role in keeping things moving forward. Some are at the forefront, in labs, hospitals, and clinics. Others are presenting findings to policymakers, working to turn research into real-world change.
“And then there are those, like me, working behind the scenes, trying to turn ideas into action while simultaneously helping to facilitate opportunities for collaboration.”
Congratulating the winners, Irish Cancer Society Head of Research Dr Claire Kilty said:“Cancer research in Ireland has a huge impact on the lives of people affected by cancer. It is a driving force in improving not only treatments and outcomes, but in quality of life beyond cancer. It was fantastic to get an appreciation of the amazing cancer research projects currently happening right across the country.
“We are proud to be the largest voluntary funded of cancer research in Ireland. However, none of the vital research we fund would be possible without the support of the public, especially on days like Daffodil Day. We would encourage everyone to please get out there and support Daffodil Day in whatever way you can on March 28th.”
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