DrNaoimh O'Farrell

Dr. Naoimh O'Farrell is a consultant histopathologist at the Mater Hospital with specialist interests in gastrointestinal and molecular pathology. Her work is centred on precision oncology, delivering timely, reflexive biomarker and molecular testing that directly informs clinical decision-making and improves patient outcomes.

A medical graduate of University College Dublin, Dr. O'Farrell also holds a PhD from Trinity College Dublin, where her doctoral research focused on molecular pathology and the progression of Barrett’s oesophagus to oesophageal adenocarcinoma. This academic foundation underpins her translational approach, integrating molecular research with diagnostic practice.

Dr. O'Farrell's subspecialty training in gastrointestinal pathology was completed at Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, a world-leading centre for GI pathology and a designated peritoneal cancer centre. This fellowship was a formative stage in her professional development, characterised by sustained high-level specialist practice and close mentorship from internationally recognised leaders in colorectal cancer and inflammatory bowel disease. The fellowship was supported by the independently awarded Richard Steevens’ Scholarship (HSE, 2023).

Dr. O'Farrell's diagnostic practice spans the full spectrum of gastrointestinal pathology, with particular expertise in colorectal and upper gastrointestinal disease, including advanced gastrointestinal malignancy, with a strong emphasis on biomarker-driven diagnostics embedded within multidisciplinary care. She leads translational laboratory initiatives from assay design and validation through to accreditation and clinical implementation, working closely with oncology and surgical colleagues to ensure pathology delivers meaningful clinical impact.