The Irish Research Radiation Oncology Group (IRROG) is supported by the School of Radiation Therapy at Trinity College Dublin (TCD). The Health Research Board (HRB) grant that enabled the establishment of IRROG is housed and administered by the School of Radiation Therapy at TCD.
Since IRROG’s foundation, TCD has served as a key national collaborator, providing an academic base and ongoing institutional support that have been essential to the group’s growth and continued success.
Building the Future: Education and Research Collaboration
In collaboration with Trinity College Dublin, IRROG launched the Student Radiation Therapist Clinical Trials Unit Placement Programme, an initiative designed to give undergraduate radiation therapy students first-hand experience in clinical research through day placements within the Clinical Trials Unit (CTU).
Developed, implemented, and evaluated by IRROG staff, this programme has been highly successful and was featured in a poster publication by Rebecca O’Donovan, research radiation therapist, at ESTRO 2025.
Key findings from the programme include:
- 90% of students had never previously spent time in a clinical trials unit.
- 54% were unaware that radiation therapists could work in clinical trials before their placement.
- 100% agreed that it is valuable for students to gain CTU experience during their clinical placements.
- 92% reported a significant increase in their understanding of clinical trials.
These results highlight the importance of early exposure to research in shaping professional development and strengthening awareness of clinical trials within the field of radiation therapy.
Ongoing Collaboration and Engagement
IRROG continues to work closely with Trinity College Dublin to promote research engagement and professional development within the radiation therapy community. The IRROG Manager has delivered lectures to radiation therapy students at TCD sharing insights into clinical trial operations and research career pathways.
Acknowledgement
IRROG extends its sincere thanks to the School of Radiation Therapy at Trinity College Dublin for its continued partnership, mentorship, and support. This collaboration embodies the shared vision of advancing radiation oncology research, education, and innovation across Ireland.