Prof. Robert Byrne awarded the prestigious RCSI Vice Chancellor’s Clinician Innovation Award

Mater Private Network is pleased to announce that Professor Robert Byrne, Director of Cardiology and Director of the Cardiovascular Research Institute (CVRI) at Mater Private Network, has been awarded the prestigious RCSI Vice Chancellor’s Clinician Innovation Award at this year’s Research Day at RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences. Professor Byrne is also Chair of Cardiovascular Research at RCSI's School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences.

The award was presented by Professor Cathal Kelly in recognition of Professor Byrne’s outstanding contributions to cardiovascular research and innovation through his CYCLOPES study, which investigates whether a new ultrasound-guided procedure can break down calcium deposits in heart arteries to improve blood flow in patients with blockages caused by calcium buildup. 

Speaking about the award, Professor Robert Byrne said: “I am honoured to receive this award, which reflects the dedication and expertise of the CVRI Dublin team as well as the collaborative efforts of RCSI and Mater Private Network in advancing medical research on a global scale. Over the past five years, the CYCLOPES study has secured €2.4 million in funding and engaged 25 sites across Europe. This achievement highlights the ability of Mater Private Network and RCSI to compete internationally and attract large-scale research projects to Ireland. It also recognises the ability for high-quality, international research to be accomplished and lead by the private healthcare sector in Ireland.”

Speaking on the recognition John Hurley, Group Chief Executive, Mater Private Network said: “We are proud to celebrate Professor Robert Byrne’s exceptional contributions to cardiovascular research and innovation. This award is a testament to his dedication, leadership, and expertise, as well as the unwavering commitment of his team. It also highlights the strength of collaboration between RCSI and Mater Private Network in advancing groundbreaking medical research on a global scale.”

The CVRI Dublin was established in 2020 and is now among the leading cardiology research institutes in Ireland. With a team of 20 people dedicated to cardiology research, CYCLOPES is the first international investigator-initiated study that the CVRI Dublin has successfully conceptualised and sourced funding for.

Aiming to enrol 500 patients across 25 sites in Europe, the study involves a new method to treat blocked arteries by shifting the plaque, rather than removing it completely, helping to improve blood flow. This procedure is guided by ultrasound to make the process more efficient and improves patient outcomes. Funded by Boston Scientific, the CYCLOPES study is led by the CVRI Dublin in collaboration with Mater Private Network and RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences.

RCSI Research Day provides a platform for scientists to showcase their latest findings, emphasising the critical role of research and innovation in improving human health. It celebrates RCSI’s outstanding research achievements and highlights the world-class clinical research conducted at the university.