A new science award, to be inaugurated in the name of the President of Ireland, was announced today. The President of Ireland Young Researcher Award is Science Foundation Ireland's most prestigious award for young researchers from Ireland and around the world.
The new award was launched today by President Mary McAleese, who said she would give it every support.
Winners of the award will be selected on the basis of exceptional accomplishments in engineering and science disciplines that underpin biotechnology and information and communications technology and creative research plans that are built on work that has attracted international attention.
The research will be carried out in the country's third level institutions and funding of up to €1.2m over a five year period will be available.
The Director General of SFI said he expects a diverse group of nominees for the award. Dr William Harris added that SFI would especially encourage women nominees for the competition.
The deadline for submission of applications for the first President of Ireland Young Researcher Award is May 28. An international panel of experts will review proposals.
Science Foundation Ireland invests in academic researchers who are most likely to generate new knowledge, leading-edge technologies and competitive enterprises in the fields of biotechnology and ICT. It is funded under the National Development Plan 2000-2006.
