On 17 June 2026, the ARC Hub for Therapeutics welcomed a delegation from ANI – Agência Nacional de Inovação, Portugal's National Innovation Agency, together with innovation policy and regional development representatives from Portugal, representatives of the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) programme, the Southern Regional Assembly, and Research Ireland. The visit formed part of a study programme examining Smart Specialisation Strategies (S3) in Ireland.
The session explored how the ARC Hub for Therapeutics, hosted in partnership with the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) and University College Dublin and represented by Prof. William Gallagher, contributes to Ireland's Smart Specialisation priorities. Discussion centred on research excellence, translational and applied research, innovation and knowledge transfer, and collaboration with industry and wider ecosystem partners.
Presentations were delivered by Prof. Vincent Kelly, Emma O'Neill, Dr Araz Raoof and Dr Alison Humbles, showcasing the ARC Hub for Therapeutics' research strengths and its innovation and knowledge transfer ecosystem, as well as its role in supporting translational research, commercialisation, and collaboration across academia, industry and the wider innovation ecosystem.
The visit allowed delegates to see Ireland's research and innovation ecosystem in practice, illustrating how collaboration between academia, industry, policymakers and regional stakeholders supports Smart Specialisation priorities and drives innovation-led growth.
The exchange offered a valuable opportunity for both delegations to share perspectives and experiences on building stronger innovation ecosystems and supporting research-driven economic development.
Photos: Iain White - Fennel Photography
