SFI is aiming to tap into the most advanced technologies around with the establishment of new research facilities.

Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) and the Government have unveiled four new research centres in Ireland.

On stage at the launch on 7 September, SFI director general Prof Mark Ferguson emphasised the need for even greater levels of funding from the Government to support these new centres and others in the pipeline, so as to stay competitive against the likes of the US, Australia and New Zealand.

Not only will they play a crucial role academically, Ferguson said, but they could potentially lead to the creation of a number of spin-out companies, which could contribute to various sectors including biotech, medtech, computer science and manufacturing.

Words by Colm Gorey