Ireland’s indigenous polymer industry is thriving with over 230 companies supporting 7,000+ jobs throughout Ireland. This high-tech industry is driving innovation and Research & Development in the Medtech sector. Medical devices are often safety critical, and their malfunction could endanger a patient. Plastics and polymer technology is constantly evolving and must comply with the regulatory standards for the manufacture of medical devices required in the Medtech industry.
Advances in polymer technology are driving the next generation of medical devices. Syringes, IV tubes, heart valves, catheters, insulin pens, biodegradable and drug-eluting stents, synthetic skin substitutes, hip replacements, prosthetics and hearing implants are just a few of the medical devices that are transforming people’s lives.
New research is underway on high performance materials such bioabsorbable polymers for bone regeneration, peripheral nerve repair and cardiovascular stents. An example of an innovative medical device that has improved the lives of patients with catheters is a unique fully moulded turn valve which minimises the risk of leakage in urine collection bags.
Applied Polymer Technologies (APT) Gateway in Galway is a research and development centre funded by Enterprise Ireland. Their cutting-edge research into high tech polymer and plastics products has successfully contributed to global competitiveness, employment, and export opportunities in Medtech. Many medical devices are single use and this, plus the need for more sustainable polymers, are important issues for companies’ sustainability and recycling targets.
If you are interested in working in this fast-moving sector with state-of-the-art technology, there are opportunities at all levels to enter the industry. These courses offer high employment rates and excellent opportunities to work with world class companies in this expanding sector.
Apprenticeships are available at the Polymer Training Centre in Athlone which was set up by Irish Medtech and Polymer Technology Ireland in response to skills shortages. These are open to school leavers and people who wish to upskill or retrain. Further information from Polymer Technology Apprenticeship - IBEC
Polymer Processing Engineers are responsible for the Injection, Blow and Extrusion Moulding polymer processing lines which produce plastic components for the Medtech industry. The combination of polymer processing and tooling precision skills are highly sought after to ensure consistency in the production process.
Further information from Mechanical and Polymer Engineering TUS
There are also opportunities to study for a Postgraduate Diploma in Advanced Polymer Materials for those who wish to move into the sector from another science or engineering discipline.
Further information from Advanced Polymer Materials - Postgraduate Diploma - TUS