Dr Avril Kennan

Dr Avril Kennan has a PhD in genetics and many years subsequent lab experience working on human genetic conditions. She moved from the lab in 2007 to become a patient advocate with DEBRA Ireland. In her role there, as Head of Research and Advocacy, she led a number of international initiatives including the development of evidence-based clinical guidelines and an international patient registry.

Dr Kennan has sat on many Boards and Committees, including the DEBRA International Executive Committee and the Rare Diseases Ireland Board. In her role as CEO of HRCI (formerly the MRCG) she is passionate about supporting medical research charities and promoting their role in society. She was one of the founders of the Irish Health Research Forum.