Brian Conlon Foundation reaches £1m in donations to Cancer research at Queen’s
Queen’s University Belfast has welcomed a major milestone in their longstanding relationship with The Brian Conlon Foundation which has hit over £1m in donations. The Foundation supports the University’s in vital research into Barrett’s oesophagus and oesophageal cancer and funds GAA scholarships in memory of Queen’s alumnus Brian Conlon.
Since 2022, the Foundation’s partnership with Queen’s has had a transformative impact on the early detection of Barrett’s Oesophagus and Oesophageal Cancer, a disease often diagnosed at a late stage when curative treatment is no longer possible. This milestone reflects both the scale of the Foundation’s commitment and the enduring legacy of Brian’s vision to create opportunities and improve lives.
Dr Erin McGrattan, the Brian Conlon Queen’s PhD Scholar in Cancer Epidemiology, explained the impact of the donations on her research: “This funding has been instrumental in my work researching asymptomatic oesophageal cancer and Barrett’s oesophagus.”
“Thanks to the Foundation’s belief in this project, I have been able to build collaborations across the UK and Ireland and access high-quality data that will help improve patient outcomes.”
Praising the Foundation, Professor Richard Turkington, Queen’s Centre for Public Health, said: “I wish to extend our sincere thanks to the Brian Conlon Foundation for their longstanding support of crucial research at Queen’s. The legacy of this support will ensure the progression of this research and provide positive outcomes for patients in Northern Ireland and beyond. We are most grateful for the support.”
Currently leading research that impacts lives and communities across Northern Ireland and beyond, Erin remains driven by a commitment to health equity and scientific innovation: “Due to the support, I have been able to establish collaborations and research networks across the UK and Ireland and obtain high-quality data. I am sincerely grateful for the Brian Conlon Foundation’s belief in me and the importance of my work; their commitment has strengthened my dedication to addressing the challenges of this cancer.”
“This is what Queen’s is all about. Coming together as a community. Supporting each other, even in the face of adversity, to find ways to help others.”
Speaking about the importance of this kind of support, Director of Alumni Engagement and Philanthropy at Queen’s Eddie Friel said: “The continued generosity of the Brian Conlon Foundation highlights the profound impact philanthropy has in advancing research that transforms lives. Through their support, we are not only accelerating breakthroughs in the early detection of oesophageal cancer but also providing opportunities for talented researchers like Erin McGrattan to realise their potential and contribute to discoveries that benefit communities across Northern Ireland and beyond.
“This partnership embodies the very best of what our alumni and supporters achieve together – honouring Brian’s legacy through innovation, compassion and a shared commitment to improving lives.”
Speaking on behalf of the Foundation, Mrs Julie Conlon said: “Brian believed in making a difference in people’s lives. He had a bright, innovative mind, an appetite for information, and a unique ability to analyse and solve problems. It is inspiring to see his legacy live on through this cutting-edge medical research, which has already saved lives.
“We are proud to continue our partnerships with Queen’s University Belfast, advancing both cancer research and encouraging young people to thrive through the Brian Conlon GAA Scholarship.
“Reaching this £1 million milestone is a testament to Brian, as he continues to make a difference in the lives of many.”
