Cancer Trials Ireland's Start-Up Team took home the Best Female Led Team award at the Women in Pharma Awards 2026, recognised for delivering a step change in clinical trial start-up performance within just its first year of operation.

Established in December 2024 and led by Olivia McLoughlin, the team set out to address one of the most persistent challenges in Irish clinical research: the length of time it takes to move from trial approval to patient enrolment. 

In under twelve months, they delivered a 46% reduction in contract execution timelines and a 26% reduction in site activation timelines, bringing greater consistency and predictability to a process that directly affects how quickly patients can access innovative cancer treatments.

Judges were clear on what made the entry stand out, saying, "This entrant stood out for its outstanding operational leadership in addressing the critical challenge of clinical trial start-up timelines in Ireland. Led by Olivia McLoughlin, the team has made impressive, measurable progress, particularly in reducing contract execution and site activation timelines. With a well-coordinated, multidisciplinary approach, they've enhanced efficiency across regulatory and operational processes."

"Their work not only accelerates trial delivery but also improves patient access and strengthens Ireland's role in global cancer research," the panel also stated.

The Start-Up Team's recognition reflects the standard the Women in Pharma Awards sets for female-led team entries, where the strongest submissions combine clear leadership, cross-functional collaboration, and outcomes that extend beyond the organisation to deliver tangible benefit to patients and the wider sector.

The Women in Pharma Awards 2026 ceremony took place on 29 April 2026 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Santry.

For the complete 2026 winners list, category details, and updates, visit the official Women in Pharma Awards website and subscribe to the newsletter for insights and coverage from Ireland's pharmaceutical community.