Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 11 December 2025
264. Deputy Paula Butterly asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if, in the light of decreases in funding for academic institutions in the United States, his Department has considered an initiative which can attract talent to Ireland’s universities through means such as creating new courses and projects. [67306/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government recognises the need to strengthen our research capabilities and expand the scope of R&D to better support our enterprise sector. Attracting world-class international researchers to Ireland is a key part of this effort.
In May 2025, the Government approved the Global Talent Ireland initiative to attract international research talent. The initiative seeks to complement Government’s commitments under Impact 2030: Ireland’s Research and Innovation Strategy, which emphasises the importance of people and talent in the research ecosystem.
Research Ireland subsequently launched the Global Talent Ireland initiative in July 2025. Irish Universities submitted Expressions of Interest in August and shortlisted applicants have been invited to submit full proposals by 4 December 2025. An initial €8 million annual budget will fund research grants, start-up costs, and infrastructure.
There has been strong interest from a wide range of disciplines, countries, and Irish higher education institutions. The applications represent a variety of disciplines, including health and life science, climate and energy, social sciences, ICT, Physics, Chemistry, Materials, Maths, Space and Arts and Humanities. It is anticipated that 15 researchers, a mix of established and rising stars, will be offered roles through this process. The programme will provide the resources needed to establish or relocate world-class research teams in Ireland, enabling them to carry out globally competitive research.
This programme will reinforce Ireland’s role as a leading European hub for research excellence, innovation, and opportunity is a demonstration of our commitment to building a knowledge-driven economy.
