A €28 million investment in research equipment and facilities through Science Foundation Ireland was announced today.

The announcement was made by the Minister for Jobs, Richard Burton, together with the Minister for Research, Innovation and Skills, Damien English.

A total of 21 research projects will be supported in sectors including applied geo-sciences, pharmaceutical manufacturing, bio-banking, marine renewable energy, internet of things, astronomy, big data and additive manufacturing using nano-materials.

The funding was awarded following an international review of research groups where the research equipment and facilities are required to address major research opportunities and challenges; including partnerships with industry and /or international funders. 

It is hoped that this new funding will ensure that Irish researchers continue to be internationally competitive, with access to modern equipment and facilities which will enable them to be successful in securing future funding from leading companies and Europe, including Horizon 2020.

Director General Science Foundation Ireland and Chief Scientific Adviser to the Government of Ireland, Prof. Mark Ferguson commented, "Ireland is increasingly becoming the location of choice for multinational companies to develop and test tomorrow’s technologies and this investment demonstrates our commitment and expanded ability to engage, discover and collaborate at all levels.  

"Science Foundation Ireland is delighted to support and drive Ireland’s science strategy, Innovation 2020, with the addition of key infrastructure to propel important research projects. Ultimately, this is about providing Irish researchers in strategic areas with the tools to be world leading."
 
Source: www.businessworld.ie