Ireland Looks Closely at Optics

The Irish Medical Devices Association (IMDA) and the Applied Optics Group at the National University of Ireland (NUI) in Galway, are exploring practical ways that optics can deliver scientific and technology solutions to enhance the industry’s operations in Ireland.

Speaking at their seminar, held on 23 February 2010, Sharon Higgins, Director of IMDA said, “The medical technology sector in Ireland continues to grow. Exports of medical device and diagnostic products during the first three quarters of 2009 increased by more than 14% over the same period in 2008. This confirms Ireland as the second largest exporter of medical products in Europe, second only to Germany. The sector employs over 24,000 people, the highest per capita in Europe. Companies have adapted very successfully to changing economic circumstances, enhancing all aspects of their business models from R&D to manufacturing and commercialisation.

Keynote speaker at the event, Dr Alexander Knitsch, Senior Manager of International Sales at TRUMPF Laser -und Systemtechnik GmbH Germany, applauded IMDA and NUI Galway for their partnership. He said, “Optics is one of the key enabling technologies used to enhance medical device manufacturing and quality assurance processes. Ireland has a strong industry cluster and an internationally renowned optics group in NUI Galway. Together, I have no doubt that they will lead in adapting and developing these technologies to significantly enhance efficiencies.”

The Applied Optics Group is a Science Foundation Ireland funded research group that focuses on addressing the needs of industry and transferring research outcomes from the laboratory bench to the market, said Dr James J. Browne, President of NUI Galway.

Tags: Irish Medical Devices Association, National University of Ireland