Minister Announces €34.5 Million Investment in Innovative Research

On November 14, 2025, James Lawless, the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, unveiled a significant investment of €34.5 million to support 39 innovative research projects across various fields. This funding initiative, part of the Frontiers for the Future Programme, aims to foster groundbreaking research that addresses pressing societal challenges.

The programme received additional backing from the Children’s Health Foundation, Breakthrough Cancer Research, and the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland, which collectively contributed €2.8 million. The funded projects reflect a diverse array of research topics, from sustainable energy solutions to health innovations. Notable initiatives include the creation of advanced materials for sustainable batteries that could replace conventional lithium-ion technology and a biodegradable 3D-printed stent designed to aid in the recovery of spinal fractures resulting from osteoporosis.

Minister Lawless emphasized the transformative potential of these projects, stating, “We are investing in cutting-edge, curiosity-driven research, and empowering individual researchers to progress bold ideas that can lead to groundbreaking discoveries.” He expressed optimism about the future impact of these initiatives on society and the economy.

The research initiatives span across 12 prominent institutions, including University College Dublin, Trinity College Dublin, and Maynooth University, showcasing a collaborative effort among leading academic establishments. Projects also focus on significant societal issues, such as the development of safer, cost-effective alternatives to precious metal catalysts for converting ammonia into valuable chemicals for various industries.

The awards will support a diverse range of research personnel, including 66 PhD students, 47 postdoctoral researchers, and 13 other research roles. According to Dr. Diarmuid O’Brien, CEO of Research Ireland, the programme prioritizes high-risk, high-reward research ideas that encourage collaboration among teams to drive excellence in scientific discovery.

Additional projects include research led by Professor Geraldine Butler from University College Dublin, which explores Irish ecosystems for novel yeast species with potential applications in food and biofuels. Another project, conducted by Dr. Daniela Bezuidenhout of Maynooth University, aims to develop safer catalysts for ammonia conversion, while Professor Tomás Ryan from Trinity College Dublin investigates the mechanisms of memory loss in early life, particularly in individuals with autism.

The investment reflects a commitment to advancing research that not only enhances scientific understanding but also addresses critical health issues. Fionnuala O’Leary, CEO of the Children’s Health Foundation, remarked on the foundation’s pride in supporting this initiative, which empowers researchers to pursue innovative ideas aimed at improving outcomes for children with serious health conditions.

In a similar vein, Orla Dolan, CEO of Breakthrough Cancer Research, highlighted the organization’s focus on investing in research for cancers with low survival rates, advocating for smarter and more effective treatments. She expressed enthusiasm for the potential impact of these innovative projects on patients facing significant health challenges.

As the Frontiers for the Future Programme progresses, stakeholders eagerly anticipate the advancements and contributions these projects will bring to their respective fields and the broader community. The commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive research environment underscores the importance of collaboration in tackling some of society’s most pressing problems.