Govt to invest €11m in science research projects

The Government today pledged more than €11m for 68 research projects across the country.

Among the projects is a wind forecast system and computer-aided stroke rehabilitation therapy.

Mary Coughlan, Tánaiste and Enterprise Minister, said the money was being put towards the Science Foundation Ireland Research Frontiers Programme.

“The research funded under this programme represents the underlying scientific and engineering concepts that will assist in the development of future generations of technologies and products in areas which are very important to everyday life,” Ms Coughlan said.

“For example, cancer and Alzheimer’s treatments, MRI scanning, mobile communications, air quality and fuel cells.”

While these awards are being given to a wide number of researchers, a key component is to provide early career researchers with a first step to building their own research team.

Each researcher will train a PhD student who will work with them.

The Tánaiste added: “Among the many projects selected for funding include the development of a ground-breaking wind forecast system, led by Professor Peter Lynch at UCD, and the administering of effective stroke rehabilitation therapy through a suitable brain computer interface under the leadership of Dr Tomas Ward at National University of Ireland, Maynooth.

“Such critical research is of direct relevance to our everyday lives, and any improvements that can be achieved in these sectors will have an enormous impact on the environment, health and other important fields.”

The funding, €11.3m, will go to universities and third-level colleges across the country.