The death has occurred of Prof John Fitzpatrick, a leading urologist and head of research at the Irish Cancer Society.

Prof Fitzpatrick was formerly Professor of Surgery and consultant urologist at the Mater Hospital and UCD. He was a highly-regarded clinician and researcher.

He took up the post of head of research with the Cancer Society in 2011.

The Society said it was deeply saddened at Prof Fitzpatrick's sudden passing.

It said his appointment 'marked a new era in cancer research in Ireland. His passion, dedication and drive ensured cancer research became a cornerstone of the Irish Cancer Society in the fight against cancer'.

The Society said Prof Fitzpatrick led the process that brought together Irish and world experts in a collaboration of the brightest minds.

In 2013, Prof Fitzpatrick spearheaded the first of the Irish Cancer Society's Collaborative Cancer Research Centres, a transformative new research model which helped set the future path for cancer research in Ireland.

Prof Fitzpatrick was Editor-in-Chief of the British Journal of Urology International (BJUI) and was on the editorial board of 25 other journals. He was also Past President of the Irish Society of Urology and of the British Association of Urological Surgeons.

Always friendly, kind and considerate in his dealings with others, John Fitzpatrick will be greatly missed by his family, friends, colleagues and patients.

He is survived by his wife and three children.