The mission of the Health Research Institute (HRI) is to advance person-centred, technology enabled integrated healthcare and treatment. 

Good health and wellbeing across the lifespan

Priority Research Areas

Since its foundation in 2014, the HRI has evolved from broad research themes to specific Priority Research Areas outlined in the HRI Strategy (2023-2028). These areas, which include ageing, cancer, physical activity for health, and diet and nutrition, are supported by expertise in the Underpinning Areas of Excellence; implementation science, participatory and arts-based research, and digital technology.

Our research aligns with global and national health strategies, particularly the UN Sustainable Development Goal 3: Good Health and Wellbeing. This ensures our work addresses global health challenges and promotes wellbeing for all ages.

HRI Ageing Research

Ageing

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HRI Cancer Research

Cancer

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HRI Research

Physical Activity for Health

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HRI research

Food, Diet and Nutrition

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Underpinning Areas of Excellence

HRI Research

Participatory Health Research

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HRI Research

Implementation Science

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HRI Research

Digital Technology and Advanced Data Analytics

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About the HRI

Our people

Research services

Clinical Research Support Unit

Priority research areas

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Latest News

Latest News
06 Mar 2026

HRI marks International Womens Day with 'HRI Women in Research' campaign

HRI Women in Research 2026: Celebrating Leadership, Collaboration, and Impact. For International Women’s Day 2026, the Health Research Institute is proud to celebrate the women who are shaping research, policy, practice, and patient care across the University of Limerick and beyond.
This year, we invited five HRI researchers to share their stories, updates, and insights. Together, they offer a powerful reflection of what women’s leadership in research truly looks like: collaborative, courageous, community‑centred, and grounded in lived experience.

HRI Women in Research
16 Jan 2026

HRI Member Leading Innovation in Chronic Pain Management

Discover how HRI member Anna Marie Kiernan is advancing chronic pain management at Croom Orthopaedic Hospital through virtual reality and specialist treatments. This groundbreaking clinical work was highlighted in the Irish Examiner.

anna marie kiernan
08 Jan 2026

HRI Member Dr Catherine Norton Featured by the Irish Independent

We’re delighted to see HRI member Dr Catherine Norton in the spotlight! Featured by UL and the Irish Independent, Catherine shares her expertise on nutrition and healthy habits for the new year. Discover why balance—not extremes—is the key to long-term wellbeing

Catherine Norton Fad Diets?