Former President of Maynooth University Prof Philip Nolan has today commenced his terms as the new Director General of Science Foundation Ireland (SFI).
Nolan is a member of the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET), chairing the team’s Epidemiological Modelling Advisory Group.
He is also a member of the Royal Irish Academy and an Honorary Fellow of the Faculty of Public Health Medicine of the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland.
SFI is the state agency responsible for funding investment in scientific, technological, engineering, and mathematical research.
Nolan will serve as director general of the foundation’s board and executive committee today. The SFI board is responsible for setting the foundation’s policies and broad strategy while regulating internal financial control. SFI’s executive committee, including Trinity alumnus Dr Ciarán Seoighe as Deputy Director General and Dr Siobhán Roche as Director of Science for the Economy, will assist Nolan in managing the administration and business of the SFI.
Last year, Nolan said of his appointment: “It is a privilege to be appointed Director-General of SFI. SFI has led the transformation of Ireland’s research landscape, sponsoring outstanding research with global impact.”
“The insights of research, and the energy of innovation, can help us shape a future that is healthier, more equal and inclusive, and sustainable”, he said.
Nolan recently completed his term as President of Maynooth University.
In a press statement earlier this year, Chair of SFI Prof Peter Clinch said: “On behalf of the Board, I am delighted to welcome Philip, as Director-General designate, to SFI.”
Clinch said Nolan was “a distinguished researcher in his own right”, and will help “position Ireland as a Global Innovation Leader for the advancement of Ireland’s economy and society”.
SFI provides awards to support scientists and engineers working on research relating to biotechnology, information and communications technology and sustainable energy and energy-efficient technologies.
In 2013, the foundation’s scope was widened to include both oriented basic research and applied research. The extension of the organisation’s remit to include applied research enables the outcome of research funded by SFI to be taken closer to market, thereby increasing the potential of research to yield commercial opportunities and jobs.
