John O Neill has responsibility for leading the Research and Innovation Policy Unit in the Department to ensure research and innovation is promoted and supported in the advancement of health research and in the improvement and modernisation of health service delivery. Specific responsibilities include, supporting a research led approach in the HSE; providing strategic direction and corporate governance of the Health Research Board (HRB); connecting health research and innovation to Impact 2030 and collaborating more widely across government for more impactful outcomes. John’s team are also supporting Ireland’s proactive participation in Horizon Europe as part of wider engagements at all island and international on key priority areas across health and social care research. Advancing the Clinical Trials landscape in Ireland and increasing genomic clinical services are key areas of current focus for the team. Prior to joining the Department John was Head of Research for the Institute for Public Administration and previously was head of unit for priority policy areas across several government Departments including Climate, Transport, Housing and Environment.