Dr John O'Neill

John has just recently taken on responsibility for leading a new Research and Innovation Policy Unit within the Department of Health which will be seeking to ensure that the crucial contribution of research and innovation to wider health system improvement is more fully exploited. Specific responsibilities include, supporting a research led approach in the HSE; providing strategic direction and corporate governance of the Health Research Board (HRB); and collaborating more widely across government, academia and enterprise for more impactful outcomes. The role will also look to expand Ireland’s participation in Horizon Europe while establishing research and innovation links at both all island and international level.

Before joining the Department, John was Head of Research for the Institute of Public Administration (IPA) and held senior roles across government on key policy priorities including social housing and climate change.