Sharon Cunningham
CEO & Co-Founder, Shorla Oncology
WHY THE US
For Irish companies seeking to scale globally, the United States offers an unmatched environment for innovation, growth, and impact. At Shorla Oncology, our decision to establish and expand operations in the US reflects a strategic alignment between our mission, the available talent, and the strength of the life sciences ecosystem.
The Greater Boston–Cambridge area, where Shorla Oncology is headquartered, is one of the world’s leading life sciences hubs. It sits at the intersection of pharmaceutical development, biotechnology, and healthcare, supported by globally renowned academic institutions and research hospitals. This concentration of expertise enables close collaboration across discovery, clinical development, and commercialization, accelerating the delivery of medicines to patients who need them most.
The US also offers unparalleled access to talent and capital. A deep pool of scientific, clinical, regulatory, and commercial professionals – combined with sustained public and private investment in pharmaceutical research – continues to position the US as a global leader in life sciences innovation. For Irish companies, this environment supports rapid scaling while maintaining the highest standards of quality and compliance.
Speed and clarity are additional advantages. Established regulatory pathways, mature market infrastructure, and a strong mindset for innovation allow companies to advance and grow efficiently. For Shorla Oncology, this has been critical as we focus on addressing unmet needs, drug shortages, and limited treatment options in oncology.
The long-standing US-Ireland relationship further strengthens this opportunity. Shared values, strong economic ties, and a history of collaboration make the US a key partner for Irish businesses, enabling cross-border growth and long-term investment.
Finally, the US – and Boston in particular – is not only an exceptional place to do business, but a rewarding place to live and work. Boston’s blend of history, culture, academic excellence, and natural beauty creates a quality of life that attracts global talent and fosters collaboration. For our team, it feels like a natural extension of Ireland – international, innovative, and community-driven – making it an ideal home for Shorla Oncology’s US operations.