Dr Ian Woods, FutureNeuro StAR Lecturer at RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, has been awarded a prestigious Royal Society – Research Ireland University Research Fellowship, recognising his achievements and growing leadership in neuroscience research. 

The University Research Fellowship is a flagship initiative designed to identify and support outstanding early-career scientists as they establish independent research careers. In 2025, a total of 39 fellowships were awarded to exceptional researchers across the UK and Ireland, with three Ireland-based researchers selected, sharing over €5.5 million in funding over eight years. 

Dr Woods’ project, MX-REGEN: MXene-functionalized 3D-printed electroconductive scaffolds for spatially-controlled enhancement of pro-regenerative electrical stimulation for neurotrauma repair, will explore cutting-edge approaches to repairing the brain after traumatic injury. 

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) can result in long-term disability, including memory loss, chronic pain and impaired mobility, yet there are currently no established treatments capable of directly repairing damaged brain tissue. Dr Woods’ research aims to address this challenge by developing an innovative, minimally invasive approach to support brain repair. 

Using advanced 3D printing techniques, the project will create tiny implantable structures designed to deliver controlled electrical stimulation directly to injured areas of the brain. These electroconductive implants will combine micro-scale conductive materials with supportive biomaterials that help reduce scarring and create a favourable environment for neuron regrowth. 

By refining how these structures interact with brain tissue, the research aims to develop an injectable implant that could be delivered during neurosurgery, offering a new pathway towards functional recovery for patients. 

Welcoming the announcement, Dr Diarmuid O’Brien, CEO of Research Ireland, said: 

“As reaffirmed in our Strategy launched earlier this month, Research Ireland is committed to building a world-class environment where talent can pursue curiosity-driven research with real impact. Through this partnership, the Royal Society – Research Ireland University Research Fellowships are providing outstanding, early-career researchers with the stability and resources they need to advance Ireland’s future, for the benefit of both economy and society.” 

Professor David Henshall, Centre Director of FutureNeuro, added: 

“This award is a fantastic recognition of Dr Woods’ innovative work at the intersection of neuroscience, engineering and biomaterials. His research strongly aligns with FutureNeuro’s mission to accelerate the development of transformative therapies for neurological conditions, and we look forward to seeing its impact in the years ahead.” 

Huge congratulations to Dr Woods on this significant achievement and the exciting research it will enable.