Irish Medtech Skillnet and Atlantic Technological University Launch Europe’s First End-to-End Sterility Assurance Masters

Irish Medtech Skillnet has launched Europe’s first Master's in End-to-End Sterility Assurance with Atlantic Technological University (ATU).

Sterility assurance in the medical device sector refers to the comprehensive set of practices, processes, and standards employed to ensure that medical devices are free from viable microorganisms. Sterility assurance is critical to prevent microbial contamination on medical devices, which can lead to serious infections and complications in patients.

Dr Ann O’Connell, Network Manager, Irish Medtech Skillnet, said: "This pioneering master’s programme offers science and engineering graduates, as well as current professionals, an exceptional opportunity to earn a distinguished qualification in sterility assurance. The medtech industry adheres strictly to international sterilisation and testing standards. This programme will appeal to professionals in diverse fields and sectors, including medical laboratories and biotech industries."

Building on the success of Irish Medtech Skillnet's Postgraduate Certificate in End-to-End Sterility Assurance, which was launched in 2023, this new master’s qualification marks the second year of the programme, offering an advanced level of education and training. The partnership between Irish MedTech Skillnet, Skillnet Ireland, and Irish Medtech, as well as the accreditation by ATU (Level 9), highlights the collaborative efforts of industry and academia in developing the highest standards for the sector and reinforcing Ireland’s reputation as a global leader in medtech.

Eoghan Ó Faoláin, Director of Irish Medtech, said: "Ireland is strongly positioned as a global leader in innovative, patient-centred medical technology solutions. The new Master's in End-to-End Sterility Assurance, developed by the Irish Medtech Skillnet through collaboration with members of our Sterility Assurance Forum and ATU Galway, marks a significant milestone in ensuring we can deliver safe, sustainable medical technologies and maintain our competitive edge globally."

Tracey Donnery, Director of Policy & Communications, Skillnet Ireland, said: “The launch of this new master’s programme in sterility assurance from Irish Medtech Skillnet in partnership with ATU is hugely significant for the Irish medtech sector. This programme demonstrates the power of industry and academia collaborations in helping businesses remain competitive while meeting the fast moving technological and regulatory trends of the medtech sector. As the first of its kind in Europe, the programme further enhances Ireland’s reputation as a top global medtech hub.”

This comprehensive two-year programme equips students with practical knowledge in key areas such as microbiology, biocompatibility, medical device product life cycle, and managing innovation.

The Irish medtech ecosystem, featuring 450 businesses and nine of the world’s top 10 medtech companies, is a major contributor to the Irish economy. With the sector employing 45,000 professionals, expected to grow to 56,000 by 2028, programmes like the new Master's in End-to-End Sterility Assurance will ensure a pipeline of talent is secured.

Dr Eugene McCarthy, Head of Department of Analytical, Biopharmaceutical and Medical Science, ATU, said: “The launch of this new masters builds on our partnership with colleagues in Irish Medtech Skillnet, Skillnet Ireland and Irish Medtech Association. It’s a great example of how Atlantic Technological University is working with its stakeholders to meet both regional and national needs, providing skills in high demand that allow our partners to remain competitive and grow employment.”