Professor Declan McKenna

Overview

Professor McKenna is a senior academic leader within the Faculty of Life and Health Sciences at Ulster University who contributes extensively to Biomedical Sciences research, teaching and strategic development.

Research Interests

Translational research in Professor McKenna’s lab focuses on the role of microRNAs in disease, particularly their application in improving diagnosis, prognosis and personalised therapeutic approaches. His research is aligned with the Genomic Medicine and Research & Innovation strategic initiatives at Ulster University, and involves external collaboration with colleagues across academia, industry and clinical institutions. This work has led to a range of successful research outputs including high-impact publications, successful PhD completions, conference presentations and patents.

Teaching Interests

Professor McKenna has extensive experience in Biomedical Sciences education and academic leadership across undergraduate and postgraduate provision. His educational leadership roles have included Associate Head of School and Academic Lead for Education, where he has led curriculum design, programme development, quality assurance and strategic enhancement initiatives. He holds several professional qualifications for teaching excellence and has played a key role in driving innovation in teaching and assessment practices to enhance student learning, placement and graduate employability. As a registered STEM Ambassador and Civic Ambassador at Ulster University, he has also engaged diverse audiences beyond higher education through outreach activities with schools, educators and community groups, supporting STEM progression and lifelong learning across a broad range of learners.

Administrative Roles

Professor McKenna has extensive experience of leadership and meaningful contribution to several committees and working groups within Ulster University. Most recently, he was a member of the working group that secured investment for the new Centre for Food & Drug Discovery at Coleraine and he also served on the organising team for Ulster University’s 25@25 Leadership Programme, supporting leadership development across the public and private sectors in Northern Ireland. He also represents Ulster on external committees related to Life Sciences research, education and industry across the region.