Research Profile

Justin McCarthy

Biography

Dr. Justin McCarthy is a Senior Lecturer and Science Foundation Ireland Investigator in the School of Biochemistry & Cell Biology. He obtained a BSc (Hons) in Science at the National University Ireland, Maynooth, in 1992. He undertook his PhD at University College Cork, where he studied the biochemistry and cell biology of apoptosis in promyelocytic leukaemia and graduated in 1996. Dr. McCarthy was a Postdoctoral Fellow under supervision of Dr. Vishva Dixit, in the Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbour (1996-1997), and Department of Molecular Oncology, Genentech, South San Francisco (1997-1998) where he cloned and characterized RIP2, a novel serine/threonine protein kinase involved in the regulation of apoptosis and innate immune signalling.

In 1998 he then moved to Scios Inc., a member of the Johnson and Johnson family of companies, to lead his own group in the Alzheimer's disease Research Division. In 1999 he was appointed as Project Leader where he performed and evaluated research aimed at identifying and characterising novel signalling pathways, which culminated in the discovery of novel neurodegenerative and Alzheimer's disease drug targets. In 2000 he was appointed as a Senior Scientist and Group leader, where he was responsible for the scientific management of a research group focused on the identification and characterisation of novel therapeutic targets for small molecule drug intervention in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. As a Senior Scientist (2000-2002), he also served as a member of drug discovery steering committee within a corporate collaboration with Eli Lilly & Co. involving the in vitro and in vivo characterisation of small molecule inhibitors of Alzheimer's disease.

In 2002 he was appointed as Lecturer in the School of Biochemistry & Cell Biology, and in 2004 he was appointed Director of Biotechnology at University College Cork. In 2010 he received a National Academy for the Integration of Research, Teaching & Learning Award. He was promoted to Senior Lecturer in Biochemistry in 2012. He is currently involved in the coordination, curriculum development and delivery of  biochemistry and biotechnology courses for undergraduate Biochemistry & Medicine students and postgraduate Biotechnology students.

Dr. McCarthy is currently a SFI Principal Investigator in the Analytical and Biological Chemistry Research Facility (ABCRF) and Director of the Signal Transduction Laboratory. Research in Dr. McCarthy's Laboratory focuses on the gamma-secretase protease and its physiological role in growth factor and innate immune signalling, and involvement in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disease and cancer. In 2011 he was recipient of a Johnson & Johnson/Science Foundation Ireland, Healthcare Innovation Programme Award. Research in Dr. McCarthy's laboratory is currently funded by Science Foundation Ireland and the Irish Research Council and previously by Johnson & Johnson, the Irish Health Research Board, Science Foundation Ireland and Enterprise Ireland.

Research Interests

Overview

For many years the main research interest of the laboratory has focus on delineating the physiological importance of the presenilin proteins in neurodegeneration. In recent years this has been extended to the study of presenilins in cancer and immune surveillance.

Presenilin-mediated gamma-secretase activity was initially characterized due to its involvement in onset of Alzheimer's disease, but was subsequently found to mediate an array of physiologically important signalling events. Independent research has shown that presenilins not only interact with several proteins involved in regulating gamma-secretase activity, but also interacts with proteins centrally involved in cell survival, development and signaling events. Recently, in addition to Amyloid precursor protein (APP), several more presenilin-dependent gamma-secretase substrates have been identified indicating that presenilins have an even broader and more generic role in the regulation of cell signalling, through the regulated intramembrane proteolysis of specific type I membrane proteins. Through regulated intramembrane proteolysis, cells can relay signals from the extracellular space to their interiors through gamma-secretase-dependent proteolysis within or close to the trans-membrane domain of type-I integral membrane proteins, to generate potentially active intracellular signalling fragments.

Research Areas

To provide a better understanding of presenilin-dependent functions and of regulated intramembrane proteolysis, research in our group is currently focuses on:

  • The identification and characterization of novel presenilin-interacting proteins.
  • The functional characterization of novel gamma-secretase substrates; 
  • Post-translational modification of presenilins.

The therapeutic inhibition of gamma-secretase activity through specific targeting and modulation is currently being explored as a novel avenue for therapeutic intervention in neurodegeneration and cancer. In this regard, a more precise understanding of the regulation of presenilin functions and their contribution to disease is of major interest, not only for biologists seeking an understanding of fundamental biological processes, but also with potential long-term significance for the development of novel disease therapeutics and human healthcare.

Laboratory Financial Support

Science foundation Ireland [2003-2014], Irish Research Council for Science, Engineering and Technology [IRCSET];The Health Research Board of Ireland; National Academy for Intergration of Research, Teaching and Learning [NAIRTL] College of Science, Engineering and Food Science .

Research Grants

 ProjectFunding
Body
Start DateEnd DateAward
[HRB RP/2003/146] {McCarthy Dr. J.} NHealth Research Board05-JAN-0405-MAY-07€172,017.00
Staff CostsScience Foundation of Ireland01-JAN-1131-DEC-11€12,505.00
{McCarthy Dr. J.} NScience Foundation of Ireland21-JUL-0331-OCT-07€547,186.00
Modulation in innate Immune ResponsesIrish Research Council for Science, Engineering & Technology (IRCSET)05-OCT-0904-OCT-13€77,779.00
Evanulation of selective gamma-secretase inhibitors as novel modulators of IL-1b and TNFa - mediated inflammatory diseaseScience Foundation of Ireland01-JAN-1131-MAR-12€58,500.00
Summer Student - Anmol KiranScience Foundation of Ireland10-MAY-0602-AUG-06€6,400.00
Science Student: Cliodhna McCarthyScience Foundation of Ireland09-MAY-0531-AUG-05€3,909.00
Functional characterization of presemilin-dependent regulated intramembrance proteolysis of cytokine receptors.Science Foundation of Ireland01-APR-1030-SEP-14€918,329.00
HRB PhD Scholars Programme Janina BerghofHealth Research Board01-OCT-1030-SEP-13€51,000.00
Inquiry/Research Education ProgrammeScience Foundation of Ireland08-JUN-0430-DEC-04€9,871.00
SEFS Funded Phd Novel gama secretase substrates.Miscellaneous01-DEC-1230-SEP-15€100,000.00
Characterization of novel Presenilin ubiquitin-binding CUE domains.Irish Research Council for Science, Engineering & Technology (IRCSET)01-JUL-1230-SEP-16€72,000.00
National Academy for Integration of Research, Teaching and LearningNAIRTL01-JUN-1001-AUG-10€2,000.00
SFI International Strategic Cooperation Award (ISCA)Science Foundation Ireland01-SEP-1329-AUG-14
Science Foundation Ireland Equipment GrantScience Foundation Ireland01-NOV-04€353,018.00
Health Research Board Equipment Grant,Health Research Board01-AUG-03€120,000.00
[IRCSET SC/2003/544/Y] {McCarthy Dr J} NIrish Research Council for Science, Engineering & Technology (IRCSET)01-OCT-0330-SEP-06€163,317.00
SFI-Summer Student Raunak JainScience Foundation of Ireland10-MAY-0702-AUG-07€6,400.00
SFI International Strategic Cooperation Award (ISCA)Science Foundation Ireland05-JAN-1504-JAN-16

Publications

Book Chapters

 YearPublication
(2017)'Chapter The γ-Secretase Protease Complexes in Neurodegeneration, Cancer and Immunity'
Coleman-Vaughan, C., Mal, A., De, A. and McCarthy, J.V. (2017) 'Chapter The γ-Secretase Protease Complexes in Neurodegeneration, Cancer and Immunity' In: Sajal Chakraborti · Naranjan S. Dhalla (eds). Pathophysiological Aspects of Proteases. eu: Springer. [DOI] [Details]
(2006)'Morphological aspects of apoptosis and necrosis'
Gorman, A., McCarthy, J.V., Finucane, D., Reville, W. and Cotter, T. G. ; (2006) 'Morphological aspects of apoptosis and necrosis' In: Techniques in Apoptosis: A user's guide. U.K: ). Portland Press Ltd.. [Details]

Peer Reviewed Journals

 YearPublication
(2017)'Regulated intramembrane proteolysis: emergent role in cell signalling pathways'
McCarthy AJ;Coleman-Vaughan C;McCarthy JV; (2017) 'Regulated intramembrane proteolysis: emergent role in cell signalling pathways'. Biochemical Society Transactions, [DOI] [Details]
(2016)'Beyond γ-secretase activity: The multifunctional nature of presenilins in cell signalling pathways'
Duggan SP, McCarthy JV (2016) 'Beyond γ-secretase activity: The multifunctional nature of presenilins in cell signalling pathways'. Cellular Signalling, 28 (1):1-11 [DOI] [Details]
(2015)'Loss of Presenilin 2 function is associated with defective LPS-mediated innate immune responsiveness'
Agrawal, V., Sawhney, N., Hickey, E. and McCarthy, J.V. (2015) 'Loss of Presenilin 2 function is associated with defective LPS-mediated innate immune responsiveness'. Molecular Neurobiology, [Details]
(1994)'Increased resistance to apoptosis associated with HL-60 myeloid differentiations status'
McCarthy, JV; Fernandes, RS; Cotter, TG.; (1994) 'Increased resistance to apoptosis associated with HL-60 myeloid differentiations status'. Anti-Cancer Research, 14 (*):2063-2072 [Details]
(2016)'Regulated Intramembrane Proteolysis, innate immunity and therapeutic targets in Alzheimer's disease'
Hurst, T., Coleman-Vaughan, C., Patwal, I. and McCarthy, J.V. (2016) 'Regulated Intramembrane Proteolysis, innate immunity and therapeutic targets in Alzheimer's disease'. AIMS Molecular Science, 3 (2):138-157 [DOI] [Details]
(2016)'γ-secretase activity is required for regulated intramembrane proteolysis of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptor 1 and TNF-mediated pro-apoptotic signaling'
Chhibber-Goel J, Coleman-Vaughan C, Agrawal V, Sawhney N, Hickey E, Powell JC and McCarthy JV. (2016) 'γ-secretase activity is required for regulated intramembrane proteolysis of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptor 1 and TNF-mediated pro-apoptotic signaling'. Journal of Biological Chemistry, 291 (11):5971-5985   [Details]
(2015)'A ubiquitin-binding CUE domain in presenilin-1 enables interaction with K63-linked polyubiquitin chains'
Duggan SP, Yan R, McCarthy JV (2015) 'A ubiquitin-binding CUE domain in presenilin-1 enables interaction with K63-linked polyubiquitin chains'. Febs Letters, [DOI] [Details]
(2015)'Loss of Presenilin 2 Function Is Associated with Defective LPS-Mediated Innate Immune Responsiveness'
Agrawal V, Sawhney N, Hickey E, McCarthy JV. (2015) 'Loss of Presenilin 2 Function Is Associated with Defective LPS-Mediated Innate Immune Responsiveness'. Molecular Neurobiology, [Details]
(2015)'Gamma-secretase-independent role for cadherin-11 in neurotrophin receptor p75 (p75NTR) mediated glioblastoma cell migration'
Berghoff J, Jaisimha AV, Duggan S, MacSharry J, McCarthy JV. (2015) 'Gamma-secretase-independent role for cadherin-11 in neurotrophin receptor p75 (p75NTR) mediated glioblastoma cell migration'. Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience, 69 :41-53 [DOI] [Details]
(2013)'Presenilins are novel substrates for TRAF6-mediated ubiquitination'
Yan, R;Farrelly, S;McCarthy, JV (2013) 'Presenilins are novel substrates for TRAF6-mediated ubiquitination'. Cellular Signalling, 25 :1769-1779 [DOI] [Details]
(2013)'Semagacestat, a gamma-secretase inhibitor, activates the growth hormone secretagogue (GHS-R1a) receptor'
Schellekens, H,McNamara, O,Dinan, TG,McCarthy, JV,McGlacken, GP,Cryan, JF (2013) 'Semagacestat, a gamma-secretase inhibitor, activates the growth hormone secretagogue (GHS-R1a) receptor'. Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, 65 :528-538 [DOI] [Details]
(2010)'Presenilin and γ-Secretase Activity: A Viable Therapeutic Target for Alzheimer's Disease?'
Yan, Run; McCarthy, Justin V; (2010) 'Presenilin and γ-Secretase Activity: A Viable Therapeutic Target for Alzheimer's Disease?'. Current Signal Transduction Therapy, 5 (2):128-140 [Details]
(2009)'Presenilin-dependent regulated intramembrane proteolysis and gamma-secretase activity'
McCarthy, J. V.,Twomey, C.,Wujek, P.; (2009) 'Presenilin-dependent regulated intramembrane proteolysis and gamma-secretase activity'. Cellular and Molecular Life Sciences, 66 (9):1534-1555   [Details]
(2009)'Interleukin-1 Receptor Type 1 Is a Substrate for gamma-Secretase-dependent Regulated Intramembrane Proteolysis'
Elzinga, B. M.,Twomey, C.,Powell, J. C.,Harte, F.,McCarthy, J. V.; (2009) 'Interleukin-1 Receptor Type 1 Is a Substrate for gamma-Secretase-dependent Regulated Intramembrane Proteolysis'. Journal of Biological Chemistry, 284 (3):1394-1409   [Details]
(2009)'TRAF6 promotes ubiquitination and regulated intramembrane proteolysis of IL-1R1'
Twomey, C,Qian, S,McCarthy, JV; (2009) 'TRAF6 promotes ubiquitination and regulated intramembrane proteolysis of IL-1R1'. Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications, 381 :418-423 [DOI] [Details]
(2009)'Association between Presenilin-1 and TRAF6 modulates regulated intramembrane proteolysis of the p75(NTR) neurotrophin receptor'
Powell, JC,Twomey, C,Jain, R,McCarthy, JV; (2009) 'Association between Presenilin-1 and TRAF6 modulates regulated intramembrane proteolysis of the p75(NTR) neurotrophin receptor'. Journal of Neurochemistry, 108 :216-230 [DOI] [Details]
(2007)'The insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) receptor is a substrate for gamma-secretase-mediated intramembrane proteolysis'
McElroy, B;Powell, JC;McCarthy, JV (2007) 'The insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) receptor is a substrate for gamma-secretase-mediated intramembrane proteolysis'. Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications, 358 :1136-1141 [DOI] [Details]
(2006)'Presenilin-1 is an unprimed glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta substrate'
Twomey, C,McCarthy, JV; (2006) 'Presenilin-1 is an unprimed glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta substrate'. Febs Letters, 580 :4015-4020 [DOI] [Details]
(2005)'Involvement of presenilins in cell-survival signalling pathways'
McCarthy, J. V.; (2005) 'Involvement of presenilins in cell-survival signalling pathways'. Biochemical Society Transactions, 33 :568-572   [Details]
(2005)'Pathways of apoptosis and importance in development'
Twomey, C.,McCarthy, J. V.; (2005) 'Pathways of apoptosis and importance in development'. Journal of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, 9 (2):345-359   [Details]
(2003)'Apoptosis and development'
McCarthy JV; (2003) 'Apoptosis and development'. Essays In Biochemistry, 39 :11-24 [Details]
(2002)'Structural and functional characterization of the upstream regulatory region of the human gene encoding prostate apoptosis response factor-4'
Hsu SC, Kirschenbaum F, Miller J, Cordell B, McCarthy JV; (2002) 'Structural and functional characterization of the upstream regulatory region of the human gene encoding prostate apoptosis response factor-4'. Gene, 295 (1):109-116 [Details]
(2001)'Glycogen synthase kinase-3beta regulates presenilin 1 C-terminal fragment levels'
Kirschenbaum F, Hsu SC, Cordell B, McCarthy JV; (2001) 'Glycogen synthase kinase-3beta regulates presenilin 1 C-terminal fragment levels'. The Journal of biological chemistry, 276 (33):30701-30707 [DOI] [Details]
(2001)'Substitution of a glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta phosphorylation site in presenilin 1 separates presenilin function from beta-catenin signaling'
Kirschenbaum, F.,Hsu, S. C.,Cordell, B.,McCarthy, J. V.; (2001) 'Substitution of a glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta phosphorylation site in presenilin 1 separates presenilin function from beta-catenin signaling'. Journal of Biological Chemistry, 276 (10):7366-7375   [Details]
(1998)'RIP2 is a novel NF-kappaB-activating and cell death-inducing kinase'
McCarthy JV, Ni J, Dixit VM; (1998) 'RIP2 is a novel NF-kappaB-activating and cell death-inducing kinase'. The Journal of Biological Chemistry, 273 (27):16968-16975 [Details]
(1998)'Apoptosis induced by Drosophila Reaper and Grim in a human system - Attenuation by inhibitor of apoptosis proteins (cIAPs)'
McCarthy, J. V.,Dixit, V. M.; (1998) 'Apoptosis induced by Drosophila Reaper and Grim in a human system - Attenuation by inhibitor of apoptosis proteins (cIAPs)'. Journal of Biological Chemistry, 273 (37):24009-24015   [Details]
(1997)'Cell shrinkage and apoptosis: a role for potassium and sodium ion efflux'
McCarthy, JV,Cotter, TG; (1997) 'Cell shrinkage and apoptosis: a role for potassium and sodium ion efflux'. Cell, 4 :756-770 [Details]
(1994)'Increased resistance to apoptosis associated with HL-60 myeloid differentiation status'
McCarthy JV, Fernandes RS, Gotter TG; (1994) 'Increased resistance to apoptosis associated with HL-60 myeloid differentiation status'. Cancer, 14 (5A):2063-2072 [Details]
(1994)'Genes and Apoptosis'
Cotter, TG; McCarthy, JV; (1994) 'Genes and Apoptosis'. Biochemical Society Transactions, 22 (*):591-593 [Details]
(1994)'Cell death in the myeloid lineage'
Cotter, TG; Fernandes, RS; Verhagen, S; McCarthy, JV; (1994) 'Cell death in the myeloid lineage'. Immunological Reviews, 142 (*):93-112 [Details]
(1994)'INCREASED RESISTANCE TO APOPTOSIS ASSOCIATED WITH HL-60 MYELOID DIFFERENTIATION STATUS'
McCarthy, J. V.,Fernandes, R. S.,Gotter, T. G.; (1994) 'INCREASED RESISTANCE TO APOPTOSIS ASSOCIATED WITH HL-60 MYELOID DIFFERENTIATION STATUS'. Anticancer Research, 14 (5A):2063-2072   [Details]

Conference Publications

 YearPublication
(2008)11th International Conference on Alzheimer's disease and related disorders
Justin V. McCarthy, Elzinga, B., Twomey, T., Harte, F., Powell, J.C. and Wujek, P. ; (2008) Presenilin-dependent gamma-secretase proteolysis of cytokine receptors 11th International Conference on Alzheimer's disease and related disorders [Details]
(2008)11th International conference of Alzheimer's disease and related disorders
Harte, F.M., Elzinga, B.M. and Justin V. McCarthy.; (2008) Regulated intramembrane proteolysis of tumour necrosis factor receptor 1 (TNFR 1) . In: Alzheimer's and Dementia, 4(4), T735 eds. 11th International conference of Alzheimer's disease and related disorders [Details]
(2006)Biochemical Society, Biosciences 2006
Harte, F., Elzinga, B. and Justin V. McCarthy. ; (2006) Association between Presenilin-1 and RIP1 Kinase: Implications in cytokine mediated signalling Biochemical Society, Biosciences 2006 [Details]
(2006)Biochemical Society, Biosciences Glasgow 2006
Powell, J.C. and Justin V. McCarthy. ; (2006) Presenilin-1 interacts with tumour necrosis factor receptor-associated factor-6 (TRAF6): Implications in Alzheimer¿s disease and cytokine responsiveness Biochemical Society, Biosciences Glasgow 2006 [Details]
(2006)UCC, Medicine and Health Annual Research Day, June 2006
Elzinga, B., Twomey, T. and Justin V. McCarthy. ; (2006) The interleukin-1 type-1 receptor is a substrate for presenilin-dependent gamma-secretase cleavage UCC, Medicine and Health Annual Research Day, June 2006 [Details]
(2006)The Biochemical Society, Bioscience Glasgow, Scotland.23-27 July 2006
Twomey, C. and Justin V. McCarthy. ; (2006) Presenilin-1 is an unprimed GSK-3beta substrate The Biochemical Society, Bioscience Glasgow, Scotland.23-27 July 2006 [Details]
(2008)11th International Conference on Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders
1. Justin V. McCarthy, Elzinga, B., Twomey, T., Harte, F., Powell, J.C. and Wujek, P. (2008) Presenilin-dependent gamma-secretase proteolysis of cytokine receptors 11th International Conference on Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders [Details]
(2008)11th International Conference on Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders
Harte, F., Elzinga, B. and McCarthy, Justin V. (2008) The tumour necrosis factor type 1 receptor (TNFR1) is a substrate for presenilin-dependent gamma-secretase cleavage 11th International Conference on Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders [Details]

Book Reviews

 YearPublication
(2009)Presenilin-dependent regulated intramembrane proteolysis and gamma-secretase activity.
McCarthy, JV,Twomey, C,Wujek, P (2009) Presenilin-dependent regulated intramembrane proteolysis and gamma-secretase activity. Book Reviews [DOI] [Details]
(2005)Pathways of apoptosis and importance in development.
Twomey, C,McCarthy, JV (2005) Pathways of apoptosis and importance in development. Book Reviews [Details]
(2003)Apoptosis and development.
McCarthy, JV (2003) Apoptosis and development. Book Reviews [Details]

Abstract

 YearPublication
(2008)The tumour necrosis factor type 1 receptor (TNFR1) is a substrate for presenilin-dependent gamma-secretase cleavage.
Harte, F,Elzinga, B,McCarthy, JV (2008) The tumour necrosis factor type 1 receptor (TNFR1) is a substrate for presenilin-dependent gamma-secretase cleavage. Abstract [Details]
(2008)The interleukin-1 receptor type 1 is ubiquitinated by TRAF6.
Twomey, C,Qian, S,McCarthy, JV (2008) The interleukin-1 receptor type 1 is ubiquitinated by TRAF6. Abstract [Details]
(2004)Presenilin-1 induces NF-kappa B activation via a RIP-P62-APKC signaling cascade.
Powell, JC,Elzinga, BM,Hsu, SC,Diaz-Meco, MT,Kirschenbaum, F,Saftig, P,De Strooper, B,Moscat, J,Cordell, B,McCarthy, JV (2004) Presenilin-1 induces NF-kappa B activation via a RIP-P62-APKC signaling cascade. Abstract [Details]

Other

 YearPublication
(2008)The Interleukin-1 Receptor Type 1 Is Ubiquitinated By Traf6.
Twomey, C, Qian, S, McCarthy, JV; (2008) The Interleukin-1 Receptor Type 1 Is Ubiquitinated By Traf6. Other [Details]
(2005)Involvement of presenilins in cell-survival signalling pathways.
McCarthy, JV (2005) Involvement of presenilins in cell-survival signalling pathways. Other [Details]

Review Articles

 YearPublication
(2010)Presenilin and gamma-Secretase Activity: A Viable Therapeutic Target for Alzheimer's Disease?.
Yan, R,McCarthy, JV (2010) Presenilin and gamma-Secretase Activity: A Viable Therapeutic Target for Alzheimer's Disease?. Review Articles [Details]
(2008)Presenilin diversifies its portfolio: Gamma-secretase proteolysis of cytokine receptors.
McCarthy, JV,Elzinga, BM,Twomey, C,Harte, F,Powell, JC,Wujek, P (2008) Presenilin diversifies its portfolio: Gamma-secretase proteolysis of cytokine receptors. Review Articles [Details]

Reviews

 YearPublication
(2009)Interleukin-1 Receptor Type 1 Is a Substrate for gamma-Secretase-dependent Regulated Intramembrane Proteolysis.
Elzinga, BM;Twomey, C;Powell, JC;Harte, F;McCarthy, JV (2009) Interleukin-1 Receptor Type 1 Is a Substrate for gamma-Secretase-dependent Regulated Intramembrane Proteolysis. BETHESDA: Reviews [DOI] [Details]
(1994)CELL-DEATH IN THE MYELOID LINEAGE.
COTTER, TG;FERNANDES, RS;VERHAEGEN, S;MCCARTHY, JV (1994) CELL-DEATH IN THE MYELOID LINEAGE. COPENHAGEN: Reviews [Details]

Professional Activities

Conference Contributions

 YearPublication
(2014)Neuroscience Society,
Justin V. McCarthy. (2014) Beyond Alzheimer’s disease: A role for presenilins and γ-secretase-regulated signalling in the immune system. [Invited Lectures (Conference)], Neuroscience Society, Trinity College Dublin , 14-APR-14. [Details]
(2013)8th Neuroscience Ireland Conference,
Vishal Agrawal, Neha Sawhney, Peter Wujek and Justin V. McCarthy. (2013) A central role for Presenilin 2 in determining LPS induced TLR4 innate immune responsiveness. [Oral Presentation], 8th Neuroscience Ireland Conference, University College Cork, Ireland , 12-SEP-13. [Details]
(2013)Young Life Scientist’ Symposium,,
Vishal Agrawal, Neha Sawhney, Peter Wujek and Justin V. McCarthy. (2013) A central role for Presenilin 2 in determining LPS induced TLR4 innate immune responsiveness. [Poster Presentation], Young Life Scientist’ Symposium,, University College Cork, Ireland, . [Details]
(2013)Young Life Scientist’ Symposium,
Janina Berghoff and Justin V. McCarthy. (2013) Role of ubiquitination and gamma-secretase-mediated cleavage of the p75 neurotrophin receptor in glioblastoma cell migration. [Poster Presentation], Young Life Scientist’ Symposium, University College Cork, Ireland , 11-SEP-13. [Details]
(2013)8th Neuroscience Ireland Conference,
Jyoti Chhibber and Justin V. McCarthy. (2013) Regulated intramembrane proteolysis of TNF-R1 and defective TNF-alpha responsiveness in presenilin-2 knockout mice. [Poster Presentation], 8th Neuroscience Ireland Conference, University College Cork, Ireland . [Details]
(2013)Abcam Conference. Inflammasome in Health and Disease,
Vishal Agrawal, Neha Sawhney, Peter Wujek and Justin V. McCarthy. (2013) A central role for Presenilin 2 in determining LPS induced TLR4 innate immune responsiveness. [Poster Presentation], Abcam Conference. Inflammasome in Health and Disease, Boston College, Boston, USA . [Details]
(2011)Gordon Research Conference,
Janina Berghoff and Justin V. McCarthy. (2011) Ubiquitination and regulated intramembrane proteolysis of the p75 neurotrophin receptor. [Poster Presentation], Gordon Research Conference, Davidson, NC, USA . [Details]
(2011)3rd Annual NF-kB Workshop,
Vishal Agrawal and Justin V. McCarthy. (2011) A role for presenilin-2 in determining IL-1β and LPS mediated responsiveness and gene regulation. [Poster Presentation], 3rd Annual NF-kB Workshop, Maynooth, Ireland . [Details]
(2011)Gordon Research Conference,
Justin V. McCarthy (2011) A role for regulated intramembrane proteolysis in growth factor and cytokine signalling. [Oral Presentation], Gordon Research Conference, Davidson, NC, USA , 11-JUL-11. [Details]
(2011)Gordon Research Conference,
Jyoti Chhibber and Justin V. McCarthy. (2011) PS1-containing gamma-secretase complexes and regulated intramembrane proteolysis of IL-1 receptor. [Poster Presentation], Gordon Research Conference, Davidson, NC, USA . [Details]
(2011)Biochemical Society Irish Area Section Annual Meeting,
Run Yan, Stephen Duggan and Justin V. McCarthy. (2011) Presenilin-1 is a novel substrate for TRAF6-mediated ubiquitination. [Poster Presentation], Biochemical Society Irish Area Section Annual Meeting, Maynooth, Ireland . [Details]
(2008)Biochemical Society IAS Lecture Tour,
Justin V. McCarthy; (2008) Biochemical Society IAS Lecture Tour. [Conference Organising Committee Member], Biochemical Society IAS Lecture Tour, University College Cork, Ireland , 01-DEC-08 - 01-DEC-08. [Details]
(2008)Biochemical Society IAS Annual Meeting,
Justin V. McCarthy; (2008) Genome instability and Cancer. [Conference Organising Committee Member], Biochemical Society IAS Annual Meeting, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland , 04-DEC-08 - 04-DEC-08. [Details]
(2008)None,
McCarthy J.V.; (2008) Presenilin Involvement in Cytokine signalling pathways. [Oral Presentation], None, Tarragona, Spain , 01-JAN-08 - 01-JAN-08. [Details]
(2008)None,
McCarthy J.V.; (2008) New designer ice cream threatens to set off a time bomb - biotechnology, be part of the story. [Oral Presentation], None, University College Cork , 30-NOV-08 - 30-NOV-08. [Details]
(2008)11th International Conference on Alzheimer's disease and related disorders,
Harte, F.M., Elzinga, B.M. and Justin V. McCarthy; (2008) Regulated intramembrane proteolysis of tumournecrosis factor receptor 1 (TNFR 1). [Oral Presentation], 11th International Conference on Alzheimer's disease and related disorders, Chicago, USA , 26-JUN-08 - 30-JUN-08. [Details]
(2008)11th International Conference on Alzheimer's disease and related disorders,
Justin V. McCarthy, Elzinga, B., Twomey T., Harte F.,Powell J.C., Wujek P. ; (2008) Presenilin-dependent gamma-secretase proteolysis of cytokine receptors. [Oral Presentation], 11th International Conference on Alzheimer's disease and related disorders, Chicago, USA , 26-JUN-08 - 30-JUN-08. [Details]
(2007)Biochemical Society IAS Annual Meeting,
Justin V. McCarthy; (2007) Ubiquitin and Ubiquitin-like Modification on Health and Disease. [Conference Organising Committee Member], Biochemical Society IAS Annual Meeting, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland , 22-NOV-07 - 23-NOV-07. [Details]
(2006)Biochemical Society IAS Lecture Tour,
Justin V. McCarthy; (2006) Biochemical Society IAS Lecture Tour. [Conference Organising Committee Member], Biochemical Society IAS Lecture Tour, Cork, Ireland , 14-FEB-06 - 14-JUN-06. [Details]
(2006)Neuroscience Ireland,
Justin V. McCarthy; (2006) Neurological disorders: molecules, mechanisms and therapeutics. [Conference Organising Committee Member], Neuroscience Ireland, Cork, Ireland , 21-SEP-06 - 22-SEP-06. [Details]
(2006)Bioscience Glasgow 2006,
Harte, F., Elzinga, B. and Justin V. McCarthy.; (2006) Association between Presencilin-1 and RIP1 Kinase: Implications in cytokine mediated signalling. [Oral Presentation], Bioscience Glasgow 2006, Glasgow, Scotland , 23-JUL-06 - 27-JUL-06. [Details]
(2006)College of Medicine Research Day, University College Cork,
Elzinga, B., Twomey. T. and Justin V. McCarthy; (2006) The interleukin-1 type-1 receptor is a substrate for presenilin-dependent gamma-secretase cleavage. [Oral Presentation], College of Medicine Research Day, University College Cork, University College Cork , 01-JUN-06 - 01-JUN-06. [Details]
(2006)College of Medicine Research Day, University College Cork,
Twomey, C. and Justin V. McCarthy; (2006) An analysis of Glycogen Synthase Kinase 3 mediated phosphorylation of Presenilin-1. [Oral Presentation], College of Medicine Research Day, University College Cork, University College Cork , 01-JUN-06 - 01-JUN-06. [Details]
(2006)College of Medicine Research Day, University College Cork,
Harte, F., Elzinga, B. and Justin V. McCarthy.; (2006) Association between Presencilin-1 and RIP1 Kinase: Implications in cytokine mediated signalling. [Oral Presentation], College of Medicine Research Day, University College Cork, University College Cork , 01-JUN-06 - 01-JUN-06. [Details]
(2006)College of Medicine Research Day, University College Cork,
Powell, J.C., Elzinga, B. and Justin V. McCarthy; (2006) Presenilin-1 modulates ubiquitination of tumour necrosis factor receptor associated factor-6 (TRAF6). [Oral Presentation], College of Medicine Research Day, University College Cork, University College Cork , 01-JUN-06 - 01-JUN-06. [Details]
(2006)10th International Conference on Alzheimer's disease and related disorders,
Twomey, C. and Justin V. McCarthy; (2006) Presenilin-1 is an unprimed GSK-3beta substrate. [Oral Presentation], 10th International Conference on Alzheimer's disease and related disorders, Madrid, Spain , 15-JUL-06 - 20-JUL-06. [Details]
(2006)10th International Conference on Alzheimer's disease and related disorders,
Elzinga, B. and Justin V. McCarthy; (2006) The interleukin-1 type-1 receptor is a substrate for presenilin-dependent gamma-secretase cleavage. [Oral Presentation], 10th International Conference on Alzheimer's disease and related disorders, Madrid, Spain , 15-JUL-06 - 20-JUL-06. [Details]
(2006)10th International Conference on Alzheimer's disease and related disorders,
Powell, J.C. and Justin V. McCarthy; (2006) Presenilin-1 interacts with tumour necrosis factor receptor-associated factor-6 (TRAF6): Implications in Alzheimer's disease and cytokine responsiveness. [Oral Presentation], 10th International Conference on Alzheimer's disease and related disorders, Madrid, Spain , 15-JUL-06 - 20-JUL-06. [Details]
(2006)10th International Conference on Alzheimer's disease and related disorders,
Harte, F. and Justin V. McCarthy.; (2006) Presenilin-1 interacts with RIP1 kinase and participates in cytokine mediated NF-kB activation. [Oral Presentation], 10th International Conference on Alzheimer's disease and related disorders, Madrid, Spain , 15-JUL-06 - 20-JUL-06. [Details]
(2006)Bioscience Glasgow 2006,
Powell, J.C. and Justin V. McCarthy; (2006) Presenilin-1 interacts with tumour necrosis factor receptor-associated factor-6 (TRAF6): Implications in Alzheimer's disease and cytokine responsiveness. [Oral Presentation], Bioscience Glasgow 2006, Glasgow, Scotland , 23-JUL-06 - 27-JUL-06. [Details]
(2006)Bioscience Glasgow 2006,
Twomey, C. and Justin V. McCarthy; (2006) Presenilin-1 is an unprimed GSK-3beta substrate. [Oral Presentation], Bioscience Glasgow 2006, Glasgow, Scotland , 23-JUL-06 - 27-JUL-06. [Details]
(2006)Biochemical Society IAS Annual Predoctoral Meeting,
Justin V. McCarthy; (2006) Biochemical Society IAS Annual Predoctoral Meeting. [Conference Organising Committee Member], Biochemical Society IAS Annual Predoctoral Meeting, Cork, Ireland , 21-SEP-06 - 21-SEP-06. [Details]
(2005)None,
McCarthy J.V.; (2005) Involvement of Presenilins in Cell survival signalling pathways. [Oral Presentation], None, University College Dublin , 14-MAR-05 - 16-MAR-05. [Details]
(2005)None,
Baukje M. Elzinga and Justin V. McCarthy.; (2005) The interleukin-1 Receptor Type1 is a substrate for y-Secretase. [Oral Presentation], None, University College Dublin , 14-MAR-05 - 16-MAR-05. [Details]
(2005)Molecular Mechanisms of Neurodegeneration,
Justin V. McCarthy (2005) Involvement of Presenilins in Cell survival signalling pathways. [Oral Presentation], Molecular Mechanisms of Neurodegeneration, UCD, Dublin , 14-MAR-05. [Details]
(2005)Biochemical Society IAS Annual Predoctoral Meeting,
Justin V. McCarthy; (2005) IAS Annual Predoctoral Meeting. [Conference Organising Committee Member], Biochemical Society IAS Annual Predoctoral Meeting, National University of Ireland, Maynooth, Ireland , 01-JAN-05 - 01-JAN-05. [Details]
(2005)None,
James C. Powell and Justin V. McCarthy; (2005) Molecular Mechanisms of Neurodegeneration. [Oral Presentation], None, University College Dublin , 14-MAR-05 - 16-MAR-05. [Details]
(2005)None,
McCarthy J.V.; (2005) Presenilin Involvement in Cytokine signalling pathways. [Oral Presentation], None, CMBC, University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain , 21-APR-05 - 21-APR-05. [Details]
(2004)9th International Conference on Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders,
25. Powell, J.C., Elzinga, B.M., Hsu, S-C. Diaz-Meco, M. T., Kirschenbaum, F., Moscat, J., De Strooper, B, Cordell, B and McCarthy, J.V. (2004) Presenilin-1 induces NF-B activation through a RIP-p62-aPKC signalling cascade. [Poster Presentation], 9th International Conference on Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders, Pennsylvania Convention Centre, Philadelphia USA . [Details]
(2004)None,
McCarthy J.V.; (2004) Alzheimer's disease. [Oral Presentation], None, University College Cork , 11-NOV-04 - 11-NOV-04. [Details]
(2004)Biochemical Society IAS Annual Meeting,
Justin V. McCarthy; (2004) Inflammation and Haematopoiesis. [Conference Organising Committee Member], Biochemical Society IAS Annual Meeting, Coleraine, Ireland , 12-OCT-04 - 13-OCT-04. [Details]
(2004)The 9th International Conference on Alzheimer's disease and related disorders,
POWELL, J.C., Elzinga, B.M., Hsu, S-C. Diaz-Meco, M. T., Kirschenbaum, F., Moscat, J., De Strooper, B, Cordell, B and McCarthy, J.V.; (2004) Presenilin-1 induces NF-?B activation through a RIP-p62-aPKC signalling cascade. [Oral Presentation], The 9th International Conference on Alzheimer's disease and related disorders, Pennsylvania Convention Centre, Philadelphia, USA , 17-JUL-04 - 22-JUL-04. [Details]
(2003)SFI Summit,
McCarthy J.V.; (2003) Characterisation of Presenilin involvement in cell survival signalling pathways. [Oral Presentation], SFI Summit, Killarney, Co. Kerry , 15-OCT-03 - 19-OCT-03. [Details]
(2003)Bioresearch Day, University College Cork,
McCarthy J.V.; (2003) Unravelling the physiological functions of Presenilin-1 in Alzheimer's disease. [Oral Presentation], Bioresearch Day, University College Cork, University College Cork , 03-SEP-03 - 03-SEP-03. [Details]
(2003)IRCSET Funded Researcher Meeting,
Elzinga, B.M. and McCarthy, J.V.; (2003) Novel role for Presenilin 1 in NGF-signalling: relevance to pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease. [Oral Presentation], IRCSET Funded Researcher Meeting, Dublin, Ireland , 07-NOV-03 - 07-NOV-03. [Details]
(2003)None,
McCarthy J.V.; (2003) Understanding the pathological mechanisms of Presenilins in Alzheimer's disease. [Oral Presentation], None, NUI Maynooth , 11-NOV-03 - 11-NOV-03. [Details]
(2003)Biochemical Society IAS Annual Predoctoral Meeting,
Justin V. McCarthy; (2003) Triglyceride-Rich Lipoproteins and Atherosclerosis. [Conference Organising Committee Member], Biochemical Society IAS Annual Predoctoral Meeting, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland , 25-JUN-03 - 26-JUN-03. [Details]

Professional Associations

 AssociationFunctionFrom / To
American Society of Neuroscience *30-DEC-99 / 30-DEC-99
American Association for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Member/
The Biochemical Society Secretary01-JAN-05 / 01-JAN-10
The Biochemical Society Irish Area Section Member/
American Association for the Advancement of Science Member/
Neuroscience Ireland Member/
International Brain Research Organization Member/

Patents

 Patent NumberTitleGranted
WO2001151671A2Methods for Identifying inhibitors of neuronal degneration. 28-MAR-06

Committees

 CommitteeFunctionFrom / To
The Biochemical Society UCC Irish Area Representative2003 / 2010
Graduate Studies, School of Biochemistry and Cell Biology Member2008 / 2015
Health and Safety, School of Biochemistry and Cell Biology Chair2002 / 2014
Medical School Board, School of Biochemistry and Cell Biology School Representative/
Graduate Studies, School of Biochemistry & Cell Biology Deputy Chair2014 /
India Strategy Group on Internationalization College of SEFS Representative/
Biotechnology Graduate Program Director2004 / 2015
Health Research Board Career Development Fellowship Grant Reviewer2008 / 2008
PhD Internal Examiner Examiner of PhD theses/
The National Science Foundation, USA Reviewer2005 / 2005
PhD External Examiner, Trinity College Dublin External Examiner2004 / 2004
Science Foundation Ireland Solicited reviewer2003 / 2003

Employment

 EmployerPositionFrom / To
Scios Inc Senior Scientist and Group Leader01-SEP-00 / 28-FEB-02
Scios Inc. Scientist and Project Leader01-APR-98 / 30-SEP-00
Scios Inc Scientist01-NOV-98 / 30-APR-99
Genentech Inc Postdoctoral Fellow01-AUG-97 / 31-AUG-98
University of Michigan, Pathology Postdoctoral Fellow01-JUL-96 / 31-AUG-97
University College, Cork Lecturer & SFI Principal Investigator01-OCT-02 / 30-MAY-12

Education

 YearInstitutionQualificationSubject
1996University College Cork PhDUnknown
1992National University of Ireland Maynooth BScUnknown

Outreach Activities

 Description

Organisation of National and International Meetings and Scientific Expertise

  1. 2008 - Member of Organising Committee of Biochemical Society IAS Annual Meeting ‘Genome instability and Cancer’ National University of Ireland Galway Ireland.
  2. 2008 - Organiser of Biochemical Society IAS Lecture Tour. University College Cork Ireland
  3. 2007 - Member of Organising Committee of Biochemical Society IAS Annual Meeting ‘Ubiquitin and Ubiquitin-like Modification in Health and Disease’ Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin Ireland. 22 – 23 November.
  4. 2006 - Member of the organising committee of ‘Neuroscience Ireland: neurological disorders: molecules, mechanisms and therapeutics’. Cork, Ireland. 21 – 22 September.
  5. 2006 - Organizer of Biochemical Society IAS Annual Predoctoral Meeting, Cork Ireland.
  6. 2006 - Organiser of Biochemical Society IAS Lecture Tour. Cork, Ireland February 14.
  7. 2005 - Member of organising committee of Biochemical Society IAS Annual Predoctoral Meeting. National University of Ireland, Maynooth, Ireland.
  8. 2004 - Member of organising committee of Biochemical Society IAS Annual Meeting. ‘Inflammation and Haematopoiesis’, Coleraine, Ireland. 12 – 13 October.
  9. 2003 - Member of organising committee of Biochemical Society IAS Annual Predoctoral Meeting, ‘Triglyceride-Rich Lipoproteins and Atherosclerosis’. RCSI, Dublin

 

 

Journal Activities

 JournalRoleTo / From
Protein And Peptide Letters Referee-
Cell Referee-
Journal Of Biological Chemistry Referee-
Scientific Reports Referee-
Scientific Reports Referee-
Plos One Referee-
British Journal Of Pharmacology Referee-
Biochemical Society Transactions Editor01-JAN-07 - 01-JAN-07
Experimental Neurology Referee-
Journal Of Neurochemistry Referee-

Other Activities

 Description

Oral presentations and Seminars 1. Justin V. McCarthy. Beyond Alzheimer’s disease: A role for presenilins and γ-secretase-regulated signalling in the immune system. Invited Seminar. Neuroscience Society, Trinity College Dublin. 14-04-2014. 2. Justin V. McCarthy. Making the cut: Presenilin-dependent regulated intramembrane proteolysis in immune signalling. Invited Seminar. Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork. 25-02-2014. 3. Justin V. McCarthy. Functional characterization of presenilin-dependent regulated Intramembrane proteolysis of immune receptors. Invited Seminar. University of Delhi, India, August-2013 4. Justin V. McCarthy. Regulated intramembrane proteolysis in innate immune signalling and cancer. Invited Seminar. School of Biotechnology, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi, India 09-09-2013. 5. Justin V. McCarthy. A role for regulated intramembrane proteolysis in growth factor and cytokine signalling. Invited Seminar. Gordon Research Conference, Davidson, NC, USA. 11-07-2011 6. Justin V. McCarthy. Presenilin Involvement in Cytokine signalling pathways. Invited Seminar, Tarragona, Spain. 21-10- 2008 7. Justin V. McCarthy. New designer ice cream threatens to set off a time bomb – biotechnology, be part of the story. Invited seminar, Biochemistry and Biotechnology Society, UCC 30-11-2006. 8. Justin V. McCarthy. Presenilin Involvement in Cytokine signalling pathways. Invited Seminar, CMBC, University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain. 21-04- 2005. 9. Justin V. McCarthy. Involvement of Presenilins in Cell survival signalling pathways. Invited Seminar, Molecular Mechanisms of Neurodegeneration, University College Dublin. 14/16-03- 2005. 10. Justin V. McCarthy. Alzheimer’s disease. Invited Seminar, Biopharma –Inward Mission Conference. University College Cork. 11-11- 2004. 11. Justin V. McCarthy. Understanding the pathological mechanisms of Presenilins in Alzheimer’s disease. Invited Seminar, National University of Ireland, Maynooth. 11-11- 2003. 12. Justin V. McCarthy. Characterisation of Presenilin involvement in cell survival signalling pathways. Invited Seminar. Science Foundation Ireland SFI BioT grant-holders meeting. Glen Eagle Hotel, Killarney, Co. Kerry 15 - 19 October 2003. 13. Justin V. McCarthy. Unravelling the physiological functions of Presenilin-1 in Alzheimer’s disease. Bioresearch Day, University College Cork, 03-09-2003 14. Justin V. McCarthy. Understanding the pathological mechanisms of Presenilins in Alzheimer’s disease. Biosciences Institute Seminar, University College Cork, 07-07-2003. 15. Justin V. McCarthy. Invited Seminar. Characterisation of Presenilin involvement in cell survival signalling pathways. DuPont, Wilmington, Delaware, USA, July 2001. 16. Justin V. McCarthy. Invited Seminar. Identification and Characterisation of novel components and signalling pathways in apoptosis. Department of Biochemistry, University College Cork, Ireland, February 1998. 17. Justin V. McCarthy, Ni, J. and Dixit, V.M. The identification and characterisation of a novel CARD domain containing kinase. Presented at: Molecular Mechanisms of Apoptosis Regulation, American Association for Cancer Research Conference, Palm Springs, USA, 1998. 18. Justin V. McCarthy and Cotter, T.G. Increased resistance to apoptosis associated with HL-60 myeloid differentiation. Presented at: Gene therapy, American Association for Cancer Research Conference, Dublin, Ireland, 1995. 19. Justin V. McCarthy. Myeloid differentiation, cell cycle and susceptibility to apoptosis. The Biochemical Society of Ireland, Post-doctoral Meeting, Cork, Ireland, 1995. 20. Justin V. McCarthy. Increased resistance to apoptosis in differentiating HL-60 cells. The Second Euroconference on Apoptosis, Kinsale, Ireland, 1994. 21. Justin V. McCarthy. Apoptosis, differentiation and oncogene expression. Presented at: The Irish association for Cancer Research, General Scientific Meeting, Ireland, 1994.

Teaching Activities

Teaching Interests


Proved academic leadership in the administration and management of undergraduate and postgraduate education. Extensive experience in course management, admissions, curriculum development, delivery and examination. Experienced in use of modern education practices and technologies.  Experience in education and supervision of undergraduate and postgraduate students in a variety of setting and class sizes (one-to-one, small group, tutorial and lectures).

Position:
2012 - Senior Lecturer in Biochemistry
Lecture in biochemistry to undergraduate medical students in integrated curriculum (physiology, biochemistry and anatomy). Lecture in genetic engineering to postgraduate biotechnology students. Supervised undergraduate (Biochemistry, Biomedical Science and Genetics) and Postgraduate research students.
2003 -2015 Director, Biotechnology Graduate Program
          Responsible for programme administration, management and curriculum development
2012 - Deputy-Chair, School of Biochemistry & Cell Biology Graduate Studies Committee
2008 - Member, School of Biochemistry & Cell Biology Graduate Studies Committee
2008 - Medical School Board, School of Biochemistry & Cell Biology Representative.
2007 - Principal Investigator, PhD Scholars Programme in Cancer Biology
2002 -2012 Lecturer in Biochemistry
Lecture in Biochemistry to undergraduate science, medicine and dentistry students. Lecture in Genetic Engineering and Molecular Cell Biology to postgraduate biotechnology students.
2003 - Mentor, BSc undergraduate & MSc Biotechnology students

Teaching and Education Activities:

Courses
2008-2015 Undergraduate Medical Biochemistry
Fundamentals in Cardiovascular and Respiratory Biology
Delivered 24hrs of lectures per year to classes of 180-120 medical students on integrated curriculum (physiology, biochemistry and anatomy).
Delivered 12 hours of small-group tutorials to classes of 30-40 medical students.
Assisted students understand medical biochemistry through one on one appointments
Responsible for course syllabus design, delivery and examination (written and oral).

2002-2008 Undergraduate Medical & Dentistry Biochemistry
Molecular Basis of Tissue Function and Disease
Delivered 24hrs of lectures to classes of 180-120 medical and dentistry students.
Module coordinator, responsible for: syllabus design, delivery and examination.

2002-2015 Postgraduate MSc in Biotechnology
Genetic Engineering
Delivered 18hrs of lectures per year to classes of 25-35 postgraduate students.
Assisted in the laboratory instruction (4 x 4hrs) in molecular biology techniques.
Module coordinator responsible for: syllabus design, delivery and examination.
2010-2012 Undergraduate BSc Biochemistry
Principles and Applications of Biotechnology
Delivered 12hrs of lectures to classes of 35-40 final-year biochemistry students.
Module coordinator responsible for: syllabus design, delivery and examination.
2006 - 2012 Postgraduate MSc in Biotechnology
Cell and Molecular Biology
Delivered 18hrs of lectures per year to classes of 25-35 postgraduate students.
Module coordinator responsible for: syllabus design, delivery and examination.
2002-2014 Undergraduate BSc Biochemistry
Literature Review
Assisted four BSc. Biochemistry students per year in the selection of a research article.
In one-on-one appointments, advised on the preparation of a scientific review article.
Responsible for student mentorship and examination (oral).
2002-2014 Undergraduate BSc Biochemistry, Biomedical Science & Genetics
Research Dissertation
Supervise and instruct four final-year BSc. Biochemistry, Biomedical Science or Genetic students per year on the completion of an 8-12 week final-year research project.
Responsible for student mentorship and examination (written and oral). 
2006-2015 Postgraduate MSc in Biotechnology
Minor Research Dissertation
Supervise and instruct 20+ postgraduate students on the completion of six-months independent research and submission of a minor research dissertation.
Responsible for student mentorship and examination (written and oral).
2003 - 2015 Postgraduate research MSc and PhD in Biotechnology. 
PhD and Masters in Research Dissertations
To date have supervised and instruct 10 PhD and 5 MSc (research) postgraduate students on the completion of 1-4 years of independent research and submission of a research dissertation.

An outline of my courses and all courses taught by staff in the School of Biochemistry & Cell Biology are available at UCC Book of Modules

External Scholarly Activity
  • Member of Enterprise Ireland Ministerial Education delegation that travelled to India of the promotion and establishment of joint international education and research collaborations.
  • Member of UCC-Shanghai delegation that travelled to Shanghai and World Expo2010 for the promotion of education and research links between UCC and third level institutions in China.
  • Established Pfizer Postgraduate Scholarship in Biotechnology
  • Secured Eli Lilly Bursary for PhD Cancer Biology course
  • Founded Eli Lilly Postgraduate Scholarship for Academic Excellence in Biotechnology
  • Member of UCC delegation that travelled to India to promote Irish Postgraduate education.
  • Established Centocor (Janssen Biologics) Scholarship in Biotechnology
  • Member of UCC Indian Strategy Group on Internationalization

Recent Postgraduates

 Graduation YearStudent NameInstitutionDegree TypeThesis Title
2015Anirudh Jaisimha University College CorkMSc
2014Jyoti Chhibber University College CorkPHD
2014Vishal Agrawal University College CorkPHD
2014Janina Berghoff University College CorkPHD
2013Run Yan University College CorkPHD
2012Emer Hickey University College CorkMSc
2009James Powell University College CorkPHD
2010Frances Harte University College CorkPHD
2009Run Yan University College CorkMSc
2010Arslan Loualich University College CorkMSc
2009Indu Patwal University College CorkMSc
2008Ciara Twomey University College CorkPHD

Modules Taught

 Term (ID))TitleLinkSubject
2018Genetic Engineering BT6001Genetic Engineering

Research Information

Internal Collaborators

 NameInstituteCountry
Dr. Gerard McGlacken University College CorkIRELAND
Dr. William Bennett Cork University HospitalIRELAND
Dr. Barry Boland University College CorkIRELAND

External Collaborators

 NameOrganisation / InstituteCountry
Prof. Bart De Strooper KUL LeuvenBELGIUM
Abhijit De ACTREC, TATA Memorial CentreINDIA
Prof. Andreas Ludwig Aachen UniversityGERMANY

Contact details

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University College Cork

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