SFI unveils engineering funding scheme

11-02-2008

by Deirdre McArdle

Enterprise Minister Micheal Martin has announced a EUR5.5 million investment focusing on nine engineering posts across Ireland.

The funding, which forms part of Science Foundation Ireland's Engineering Professorship and Lectureship programme, will support three professorships and six lectureships across UCC (University College Cork), UCD (University College Dublin), NUIG (National University of Ireland, Galway) and TCD (Trinity College Dublin).

The main aim of the SFI programme is to increase the number of world-class, 'research active' professors and lecturers in engineering disciplines in Irish Higher Education Institutes (HEIs), which in turn will allow more flexible recruiting of key research personnel at junior and senior levels by HEIs.

As we move to strengthen Ireland's economic competitiveness, engineering has emerged as a key tool, according to Minister Martin, who said engineering is vital for translating scientific knowledge into commercial products and services.

Professor Frank Gannon, director general, SFI, re-affirmed Minister Martin's assertion, calling engineering the vital link in the chain from "research to product".

"SFI was aware of some gaps that had emerged with the changing profile of industry in Ireland and this programme, that requires industry engagement, is addressing this deficit. Simultaneously it allows the HEIs to provide diverse and advanced educational opportunities for students," said Prof Gannon.

Funding of EUR75,000 and EUR150,000 per annum for the two categories of posts is being offered: Lectureships -- early-career lecture posts; and Professorships -- senior, world-class posts. There will be a minimum funding supplement of 20 percent from industry contributors for each post. In all, a total of 24 Lectureship and 11 Professorship posts will be funded through the programme over the next three years.