ReaDI-Watch visits NIBRT

On the 5th of February 2026, Dave Byrne and Gerry Byrne had the privilege of visiting the National Institute for Bioprocessing Research and Training (NIBRT) in Dublin with Dr. Fiona Killard-Lynch, Chief Scientific Officer & Director of Research and Innovation at NIBRT. During the visit they were warmly welcomed by Darren Morrissey, CEO of NIBRT, who guided the group through the facility and shared insights on NIBRT’s mission, capabilities, and impact on the biopharma sector.

This visit highlighted the depth of NIBRT’s industry-aligned training and world-class research infrastructure, which plays a central role in the growth of the biopharmaceutical manufacturing community in Ireland and beyond.

What is NIBRT?

The National Institute for Bioprocessing Research and Training (NIBRT) is Ireland’s global centre of excellence for training and research in biopharmaceutical manufacturing. Its mission is to support growth and development in the industry by providing cutting-edge research, education, and training solutions.

Founded through collaboration between industry, government, and academia, NIBRT opened its world-class facility in Dublin in 2011. The centre operates one of the most advanced bioprocessing pilot plants in the world, including upstream, downstream, fill-finish and analytical environments designed to mimic commercial GMP manufacturing.

Core Capabilities

🔹 Training & Education

• Short courses, customised industry training, and academic programmes (Certificates, Masters and Springboard+).

• NIBRT Online Academy (NOA) delivers flexible, on-demand learning.

• Realistic, simulated training environments prepare professionals for real-world challenges.

🔹 Research & Innovation

• World-leading research in analytical science, cell and genetic engineering, informatics and bioprocess engineering.

• Research outcomes drive improvements in the manufacturing of biologics, vaccines, and cell and gene therapies.

🔹 Advanced Facilities

• The CONCEPT facility — a specialised suite within NIBRT — supports early-stage biotherapeutic development including biologics, gene and RNA therapies, and cell therapies. Research partners and industry clients can leverage its state-of-the-art instruments and customised services.

Who Benefits From NIBRT?

NIBRT serves a broad set of stakeholders across the biopharma ecosystem:

• Multinational and domestic biopharmaceutical companies seeking world-class training and problem-solving research.

• Life sciences professionals looking to upskill in cutting-edge bioprocessing techniques.

• Academic researchers and students involved in bioprocessing and advanced therapies.

• Government and policy bodies engaged in shaping the future scope of biopharma manufacturing.

Tip: Any company engaging in R&D or commercial bioprocessing activities should consider a visit to NIBRT — it’s one of the most impactful ways to understand the latest innovations and training approaches in the sector.

Upcoming Event: NIBRT Research Conference (15–16 April)

NIBRT is hosting its annual Research Conference, “Ireland’s Role in Europe’s Biotech Future,” on 15th & 16th April at the NIBRT facility in Dublin. This two-day event brings together leaders from industry, academia, regulatory agencies, and policy to discuss innovation, collaboration and strategic opportunities in biotechnology and bioprocessing.

Whether attending in person or virtually, this conference provides an exceptional forum for networking, learning, and contributing to discussions shaping the future of biopharma in Europe.