Dr Avril Kennan

Dr Avril Kennan is CEO of Health Research Charities Ireland (HRCI), a national organisation that brings together over 40 health research charities representing people affected by cancer, rare disease, mental health conditions, dementia, disability and a wide range of chronic illnesses. HRCI works to turn hope into reality by supporting charities to engage in research that improves lives. Under Avril’s leadership, the organisation strengthens partnerships between charities and researchers, enables people and families to influence research decisions, and advances national efforts to better understand, prevent and treat health conditions. She leads the Irish Health Research Forum, bringing together stakeholders to shape better health research in Ireland, and oversees the Joint Funding Scheme with the Health Research Board, which has funded over 150 projects aligned with member priorities. 

Avril holds a PhD in genetics, previously worked as a molecular biologist, and held senior roles in DEBRA Ireland and DEBRA International.