Science and Research
Making life better for us all
Cancer, AIDS, climate change and more – our world faces big problems in the 21st century. But scientists and researchers in Ireland and all over Europe are working constantly to make medical breakthroughs and technological innovations.
The EU debates, supports and funds science and research in many different areas, including:
- Energy
- Transport
- Information technology
- Agriculture and fisheries
- Natural resources
- Food
- Health
- Environmental issues
- Social sciences
- Security
- Sustainable development
Knowledge is power
In Ireland, our bright, well-educated workforce is helping to build our knowledge economy. The EU supports us by funding Irish scientists and researchers. This helps Irish businesses and research institutions to grow and prosper, and safeguards Irish jobs.
As the global financial crisis continues, we need to stay at the cutting edge of innovation. It's really important that our scientists and researchers can keep working so we remain competitive internationally. The EU is pumping billions into science and research projects to make sure we stay at the forefront of new technology.
Science and research: looking forward
Properly-funded science and research is vital to give all of us the best quality of life possible and to ensure Ireland and Europe can thrive and compete on a global basis. Under current funding schemes, Ireland will benefit from the EU’s goal of becoming the world's leader in science and research.
Billions in funding
- The EU aims to invest 3% GDP into research, to compete with Japan and the US.
- The Seventh Framework Program (FP7) is investing over €50 billion into EU research and development between 2007-2013.
- Irish colleges, small- and medium-sized businesses, and research institutions, along with multinationals based here, are set to benefit from an estimated €600 million under FP7 up until 2013.
Promoting cross-border co-operation
Everything is easier when we work together. Irish small- to medium-sized businesses will be able to share funding with other small businesses across the EU to solve common problems and create innovative solutions together.
Science and research funding from Europe is becoming heavily geared towards cross-border co-operation, with Irish companies being encourage to pool their resources with similar companies in the EU to share research and cut down on costs.
Learn more
Irish successes under the EU's 7th Research Framework Programme
Research in Europe
European Research in Action (leaflets for general public)
Seventh Framework Programme
Science in Society
European Research Council
European Commission Joint Research Centre
Science and research in Ireland
Watch EU videos on research matters