RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences has announced the appointment of Professor Tom O’Connor as Head of its School of Nursing and Midwifery.

Professor O’Connor succeeds Professor Zena Moore in the role and will lead the School in advancing excellence in nursing and midwifery education, research and leadership, both in Ireland and internationally.

Professor O’Connor is a registered nurse and registered nurse tutor and a committed nurse academic with many years’ experience in nursing and midwifery education. A graduate of the Bachelor’s degree in Nursing Studies from RCSI, he also holds a Higher Diploma in Education and a Master of Science in Advanced Nursing from the University of Ulster. He subsequently completed a Doctorate in Education at Keele University in the UK.

He brings extensive clinical experience, having worked in the Netherlands, Australia and Ireland, alongside a strong track record of academic leadership. Over the past 12 years, Professor O’Connor has served as Director of Academic Affairs in the RCSI School of Nursing and Midwifery, where he led the development of a broad range of postgraduate education opportunities supporting specialisation for nurses and midwives.

A committed researcher, Professor O’Connor has published more than 140 peer-reviewed papers in the areas of pressure ulcers, wound care and healthcare education. In recognition of his expertise and leadership in the field, he was elected President of the European Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel in 2024 and began his two-year term in September 2025.

Welcoming the appointment, Professor Tracy Robson, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs at RCSI, said: “Professor O’Connor brings a wealth of experience as a nurse academic, educator and leader, alongside a deep commitment to advancing excellence in nursing and midwifery education and research. His leadership within the School over many years, and his significant contribution to the development of postgraduate education, have had a lasting impact. I look forward to working with him as he builds on these strong foundations and continues to strengthen the School’s reputation and global impact.”

The School of Nursing and Midwifery at RCSI is internationally recognised for its focus on innovation in education and research and for its contribution to improving patient outcomes. Under Professor O’Connor’s leadership, the School will continue to expand its education portfolio, strengthen its research activity and deepen its global partnerships.

Commenting on his appointment, Professor O’Connor said: “I am deeply honoured to take on the role of Head of the RCSI School of Nursing and Midwifery and to build on the strong foundations established by Professor Zena Moore. I look forward to working with staff, students and partners to further enhance the School’s reputation for excellence and to support the development of the nursing and midwifery professions in Ireland and globally.”