Research Ireland invites Expressions of Interest for the role of Chair of inaugural Academic Advisory Council
Research Ireland is pleased to invite Expressions of Interest (EOI) for appointment to the role of Chair of a new Academic Advisory Council.
The establishment of the Council represents a strategic commitment by Research Ireland to enhance dialogue and engagement with the research community. Reporting to the Research Ireland Board, the Council will serve as a key mechanism for Research Ireland to engage with researchers on strategic and programmatic issues relevant to the agency. It will bring independent expert insight from across disciplines and institutions, helping the Board and the senior leadership team anticipate and address emerging opportunities and challenges, strengthen strategic decision-making in support of the national research and innovation system, and advance Research Ireland’s core mission and its role as ‘more than a funder’.
The Council will not have decision-making functions.
Commenting on the establishment of this new Council, the Research Ireland Chair, Michael Horgan said:
Our greatest asset is the quality and breadth of our research and innovation community. The Academic Advisory Council will create an important and enduring channel through which the Board can hear strategic perspectives from across that community. Its Chair will play a pivotal role in ensuring that these insights inform our strategic direction and help Research Ireland anticipate and respond to emerging opportunities and challenges.
Dr Diarmuid O’ Brien, CEO of Research Ireland, added:
The establishment of the Academic Advisory Council is a significant milestone in the evolution of Research Ireland. We are strongly committed to working in partnership with researchers across disciplines in all aspects of our work. I look forward to the appointment of the first Chair, and, together with the Board and leadership team, working closely with the Council to leverage the full benefits of its expertise advice going forward.
Following appointment of a Chair, a separate open call will be launched for Expressions of Interest in being appointed as a member of the Council. Full Terms of Reference will be published with the member EOI. It is anticipated that the full Council will be established by the end of Quarter 1, 2027.
Further information on the role of Chair and submission of an expression of interest is contained in the guidance document below. The closing date for receipt of EOIs is 4pm, Friday 30 October 2026.
