Get Involved in MS Research
MS Ireland helps researchers with their projects by offering advice, data, and access to our MS community. We encourage people with MS to get involved in research that is ethical, appropriately organised by a recognised institution and sanctioned by the relevant research authority.
Current MS Research Opportunities
Community-Based Healthcare Services Survey – UCC
Survey for adults (18+) with neuro-physical disabilities, including MS, on what matters most in community healthcare.
Speech and Language Therapy Focus Group – TCD
One-time focus group for people with speech changes associated with MS. In person or online this November.
Email: clinicalspeech_PEC@tcd.ie
Call: 01 896 1336
Walking and Mobility Study – TCD
Researchers at Trinity College Dublin, supported by MS Ireland, are inviting people living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) to take part in a study exploring experiences of walking and mobility in everyday life.
Views on cannabis-based medicines - TCD
People living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) are being invited to share their views on cannabis-based medicines through a new online survey led by Dr. Eric Downer at Trinity College Dublin (TCD). The purpose of this study is to explore the experiences and perspectives of individuals with MS in relation to cannabis-derived treatments.
Living with a chronic illness study - UG
A psychology student at the University of Galway is looking for young adults with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) to take part in a research study about living with a chronic illness. The study will explore how MS affects relationships, self-identity, and future goals.
Protein and Exercise Programme - UCD
A research team in UCD are recruiting adults 70+ who receive home care to take part in a study on protein intake and exercise. Participants may be experiencing weight loss or reduced appetite.
Assistive Devices - TU Dublin
A new research project led by Dr. Isabelle Killane from TU Dublin is developing an assistive device to help people with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) play the guitar. The device aims to make it easier for individuals with MS to overcome challenges like muscle weakness and tremors that affect their ability to play.
Timed Up and Go Smartphone Test - TCD
Dr. Sean McAuliffe (School of Medicine, TCD) is running a study using the “Timed Up and Go Test,” a mobility test commonly used for people with neurological conditions.
MS Research Findings & Updates
Although these studies are closed, you can read their updates and reports here as they become available.

Anxiety and MS Study
PhD student Austin Fahy from the Department of Psychology in Maynooth University is undertaking research into the experience of anxiety in people with MS. This research aims to increase understanding of anxiety in MS, both in terms of PwMS’s general experience of anxiety, and experiences of anxiety during Covid-19 to inform the development of supports for People with MS.
To find out more click below

Peer Support Needs in MS
Joan Alaboson, a PhD student in the Department of Psychology at Maynooth University, supervised by Dr Rebecca Maguire and Dr Laura Coffey, conducted an online survey exploring the peer support needs of (1) people living with MS, and (2) family members/friends who provide care, help or support to someone with MS.

EXPLORING COUPLES EXPERIENCES OF MS
A Psychologist in Clinical Training, Serena Carberry, shares important research findings on how couples experience and cope with the challenges of living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
To find out more click below

Research Strategy
MS Ireland's Research Strategy for 2015-2019

Information for Researchers
Useful Information For Those Carrying Out MS-Related Research.

Research We Fund
MS Ireland Supports Undergraduate and Post-Graduate Researchers in Finding Participants For Studies and Disseminating Research Findings.
Closed MS Research Studies
Some studies have finished recruiting. Reports will be added here once available.

Cognitive Reserve in Multiple Sclerosis
UCD conducted a research study to better understand cognitive outcomes in multiple sclerosis (MS). Up to 60% of people with MS experience cognitive difficulties, which can include difficulties with thinking quickly or remembering information.

MS BIOMARKER STUDY
The MS Research Group in CÚRAM at the University of Galway conducted a study on biomarkers of multiple sclerosis (MS).

NUTRITION AND MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS
Elaine Doran, a researcher at the Atlantic Technological University Sligo, conducted a survey-based research study to examine persons with MS (Multiple Sclerosis) attitudes and perceptions concerning nutrition and identify if there are appropriate supports for people in this area.

EXPLORING COGNITIVE CHANGES IN MS
Researchers at Trinity College Dublin, Beaumont Hospital, and St. James’s Hospital conducted a study exploring cognitive changes (thinking and memory) in Multiple Sclerosis.

Communication problems in progressive motor conditions
A survey about communication problems in progressive motor conditions such as Multiple Sclerosis (MS). This study was conducted by Prof Anja Lowit, Giulia Gasparotto, and Dr Anja Kuschmann, all speech and language therapists based at the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow UK.

Improving Bone Health in MS
‘Improving bone health in multiple sclerosis’, the objective of this study was to assess level of awareness of osteoporosis and fracture risk in MS, current practices and barriers to bone health management for people with MS.

BODY IMAGE AND ITS ASSOCIATION WITH WELL-BEING IN PEOPLE WITH/WITHOUT MS
Masters research exploring body image experiences in people with and without MS.

Stigma and MS
Study led by Dr. Rebecca Maguire exploring experiences of stigma in people with MS.

A Focus Group Study on Medication Adherence in MS
Alanna Denny, a PhD candidate from University College Cork conducted research to understand the lived experiences and perspectives of medication adherence in people with MS in the Republic of Ireland.

MS and Work
Researchers at University College Cork explored how people with MS experience the workplace — and how coaching might support resilience, self-efficacy, and well-being at work.

Sexual Difficulties in People with MS
Emily White, a PhD student at King’s College London, conducted a survey to support individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) who experience sexual difficulties (SDs).