Thirty-six new research jobs are to be created following the awarding of €3.9m worth of enterprise-academia research partnerships through the Irish Research Council’s employment programme.
The IRC’s programme supports the enterprise sector in creating job opportunities for early-stage researchers.
The awards will support research partnerships over the coming four years in key areas such as cloud computing, cybersecurity, tissue regeneration, sports performance, therapeutics, wastewater treatment, bio-conservation, justice reform and community integration.
Companies benefiting from the creation of new research-based positions include: TE Laboratories Ltd; Orbsen Therapeutics; Pilot Photonics; RehabCare; Nuritas; EdenShelters Products Ltd; Sigmoid Pharma Ltd; Irish Rugby Football Union; Fota Wildlife Park, Bell Labs Ireland and Ingersoll Rand International Ltd.
“This programme is an effective way for Irish-based enterprise to secure support and resources for their research and development and it supports our research talent pipeline, with these awardees set to become the next generation of leaders at the cutting-edge of innovation,” the Minister for Skills, Research and Innovation Damien English TD said.
“The programme can also lay the groundwork for companies to potentially tap into future research opportunities under Horizon 2020.”
70pc of awards go to SMEs
Under the programme this year, more than 70pc of awards are going to SMEs. A further 15pc will go to large indigenous enterprise, with more than 10pc supporting research-based employment opportunities in multinational corporations in Ireland.
“An objective for the Council is to support the education and skills development of excellent early-stage researchers and to offer a range of opportunities to them that support diverse career paths,” said Dr Eucharia Meehan, director of the IRC.
“This programme is key for delivering on that objective, for enabling the development of research capacity in enterprise and for delivering on the Action Plan for Jobs.”
Scientific research image via Shutterstock
