Aoife Hartnett

Class of 2026-2027

University College Cork
Biochemistry

Capstone Project Abstract

The capstone project is with Aerska, a biotechnology company developing next generation siRNA therapeutics for diseases of the brain. Aerska’s current focus is neurodegeneration, including Alzheimer’s. This project will explore other disease areas where the platform technology could be applied: glioblastoma, an aggressive brain cancer with high unmet need, and neuroinfectious diseases. Will conduct primary market research with key opinion leaders, scientists, and biopharma business development contacts, alongside competitive and financial analysis, to assess the scientific credibility, commercial viability, and partnership landscape for each opportunity. The project will conclude with a strategic recommendation to Aerska's leadership on whether and how to pursue these platform extensions. 

Why did you choose ESTEEM?

I chose ESTEEM because I love exploring my own ideas and wanting to see them work out in the real world. The program felt like the right place to take that instinct and pair it with the business and commercialization skills to actually make it happen.

What do you hope to do after ESTEEM?

After ESTEEM, I hope to build a career in biotech, working on science that has a direct path to helping patients.

What do you like to do in your free time?

When I’m off the clock, you can usually find me hanging out with friends, playing camogie, or season dependent out on the waves surfing or hitting the slopes skiing.