IN May 1844, the world’s first hypodermic needle and syringe was used to introduce a sedative directly into the bloodstream for patients suffering from neuralgia – a condition that causes pain in one or more nerves within the human body.  Today, over 50 billion injections are given annually, all thanks to Irishman Dr Francis Rynd who pioneered this method of administering medication.

Ireland has a strong tradition of excellence in education. The partner universities of the Irish Universities and Medical Schools Consortium have long been advocates of life-long learning.

Resources are not spared to provide an environment conducive to such advancement, which is the aim of University College Dublin’s Nanovation Laboratories – a purpose-built facility at the heart of nanotechnology innovation aimed at improving the quality of life and the world.

Over 30 scientists and 120 PhDs and postdoctoral degree holders from around the world work together to develop nanotechnologies and products targeted at the global renewable energy market,  estimated to be worth €113 billion by 2015.

Another fine example of collaborative research would be Trinity College Dublin’s (TCD) admission as the first European official member of the National Cancer Institute’s Chemical Biology Consortium (CBC). The CBC is an innovative international development that aims to bridge the gap between basic scientific investigation and clinical research, to bring new drugs to the clinic for the cancer patient.

Through this, TCD will contribute to a “team science” based accelerated cancer drug discovery effort from target identification, high throughput screening, all the way through clinical trials.

Meanwhile, a group of scientists at University College Cork’s Tyndall National Institute embarked on fine-tuning Rynd’s innovation with the creation of the micro needle.

The manufacturing method of this silicon-based micro needles allows for customisation of precisely targeted height, shape, sharpness and surface quality. The result would be a needle that would reduce tissue damage and improved insertion or withdrawal efficiency for treatment of biological tissue. This provides a painless drug delivery to patients.

These amazing achievements, coupled with scenic spots, vibrant culture and genuine warm hospitality, it is no wonder that Ireland is fast becoming the destination of choice for graduates seeking to do further research.

For more information on Study in Ireland, call 03-21632302, e-mail iumc@po.jaring.my or visit www.iumc.com.my