People involved in ground-breaking research projects around the country were honoured at the Irish Cancer Society Research Awards in Ballsbridge, Dublin.
Every year, the Irish Cancer Society invests approximately €4 million in innovative cancer research. In 2025, the Society funded 25 new projects and supported over 150 cancer researchers across Ireland.
The event, hosted by the Irish Cancer Society’s Head of Research, Dr Claire Kilty, celebrates some of the amazing work in cancer research being carried out by nominees around Ireland, funded by the Irish Cancer Society.
Among those to claim top honours was Aoife Shannon from Clare, 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.
Aoife joined Cancer Trials Ireland (CTI) in 2009 and now leads the radiotherapy clinical research portfolio, alongside other non-drug studies including surgical, translational, and lifestyle-focused research. She is also a member of the CTI Start-up Team, supporting the development of new ideas into active clinical studies.
Welcoming her award, recognising her work as an Radiotherapy Programme Manager at Cancer Trials Ireland, Aoife Shannon, from Cranny and now living in Ennis, Co. Clare said: “My decision to pursue a career in cancer research was inspired by my two aunts, both named Bríd, who were diagnosed with cancer and sadly passed away from the disease. I went on to complete my PhD and post-doctoral research in this field before joining Cancer Trials Ireland 17 years ago.
“Receiving this award is a wonderful recognition of the work I’ve done to help make innovative radiotherapy research more accessible for cancer patients. My role includes helping to shape study plans, making sure patient information is clear and understandable, and supporting hospitals around the country to open these clinical research studies. Much of this work happens behind the scenes, so it means a great deal to have it recognised in this way, and I’m very grateful for the honour.”
Congratulating the winners and finalists, 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 at the Irish Cancer Society Research Awards, and to be able to recognise the great strides that are being made in cancer research.
“We are proud to be the largest voluntary funder 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 20th.”
Daffodil Day takes place on Friday 20th March. Whether you want to get involved with your school, company, or in your community, there are lots of ways to go all in and support cancer patients across Ireland. Visit cancer.ie to get involved or learn more. Anyone with questions or concerns about cancer can contact the Irish Cancer Society Support Line on Freephone 1800 200 700 or supportline@irishcancer.ie