J&J MedTech Expands Stroke R&D Programs in Ireland, Reinforcing Global Neurovascular Innovation

Johnson & Johnson MedTech is bolstering its stroke-focused research and development efforts in Ireland, marking a significant expansion of its neurovascular capabilities in the region. This move builds upon previous investments and follows the completion of a new innovation center in Galway earlier this year.

Galway Site Expansion and R&D Focus

The expansion of J&J MedTech's Galway site, first established in 2017, comes with a broadened scope of research. Michael Gilvarry, the site's general manager and head of R&D for J&J MedTech Neurovascular, stated, "By expanding our remit from ischemic stroke to include chronic subdural hematoma and other neurovascular conditions, our talented workforce in Galway is applying their scientific knowledge and engineering skills in new ways to find solutions to these life-threatening conditions."

The latest projects at the Galway facility will focus on developing therapies for various types of stroke and liquid embolic procedures. This expansion is expected to deepen the site's bench of engineering and scientific talent, although specific funding details were not disclosed.

Global Scientific Advisory Board Meeting and International Collaboration

Coinciding with the expansion announcement, Galway is hosting a meeting of J&J's neurovascular global scientific advisory board. This gathering includes physician leaders from the United States, Europe, Middle East, Africa, and Asia-Pacific regions, underscoring the global significance of the Irish site in J&J's neurovascular research network.

Gilvarry emphasized the importance of the Irish facility, stating, "Ireland is a critical part of our global innovation network, and this investment reflects our long-term commitment to building and advancing our neurovascular capabilities in the region for the benefit of patients around the world."

Regional Impact and Future Prospects

The expansion of J&J MedTech's operations in Galway is seen as a boost to Ireland's medical technology sector. Michael Lohan, CEO of IDA Ireland, commented on the development: "Galway and the West Region has long been a cornerstone of Europe's medical technology sector, and our ongoing partnership with Johnson & Johnson MedTech in the neurovascular space is a shining example of the region's status as a key innovation hub."

Lohan added that the work at the Galway site aligns closely with IDA Ireland's new strategy, "Adapt Intelligently," and is expected to create high-skilled opportunities for local talent while shaping the future of stroke care through cutting-edge innovation developed in the west of Ireland.

The expansion in Galway also reinforces J&J MedTech's commitment to advancing stroke research and treatment. This month, the company showcased its research in stroke and chronic subdural hematomas at the annual meeting of the Society of Vascular and Interventional Neurology in Orlando, Florida. Presentations included new data on middle meningeal artery embolization and the company's Cereglide 92 aspiration catheter system, which launched in the U.S. in February.

As J&J MedTech continues to invest in its Irish operations, the Galway site is poised to play an increasingly important role in the company's global neurovascular research and development efforts, potentially leading to significant advancements in stroke care and related conditions.