US university to create 50 research jobs in Athlone

The research arm of a leading US university has announced plans to create 50 new jobs in Athlone over the coming five years.

Georgia Tech Research Institute is planning to invest €20m in a new research facility in the Co Westmeath town.

GTRI is attached to the Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta, one of the oldest and most respected polytechnic universities in the United States.

Its new facility will work closely with Athlone Institute of Technology and with major local employer Elan.

Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Micheál Martin has said he hopes the development can help attract more foreign investment into the area.