Software company Quest has opened a new research and development centre for artificial intelligence at its facility in Cork.
The company says around 100 jobs will be created at the centre, which will develop advanced AI architure in data, security and for modern platforms.
Quest says the centre will deliver market-leading and first-of-a-kind innovations that will help drive customer success and, in turn, Quest's growth.
The new AI centre in Cork is part of an investment of $350m announced by Quest earlier this year, designed to strengthen the company's focus on helping customers succeed in the AI era. The centre in Cork is being supported by IDA Ireland.
Quest says the centre will serve as a hub for applied research and development. Teams in Cork will work across AI engineering, data science, cybersecurity, and software development to strengthen the company's products in these areas.
The opening of the centre in Cork today was attended by Ireland's EU Commissioner, Michael McGrath.
He described the centre as a significant investment in skills, talent, and jobs.
"The European Commission recognises the urgent need to expand Europe's pool of AI expertise. That is why, a few months ago, we launched the AI Continent Action Plan - to train and attract more AI researchers and professionals, and to strengthen AI skills and literacy across our workforce," he said.
"Today’s announcement aligns perfectly with that ambition. It strengthens Europe’s innovation capacity and is a strong endorsement of Cork and the wider Southwest region. It demonstrates the role Cork plays as a dynamic contributor to Europe’s digital future, and its importance for companies like Quest as they scale their European presence," he added.
Tim Page, CEO at Quest Software, said the new investment strengthens the company's growth and supports the work it does to advance its products for the AI era and help it deliver AI that customers can trust.
"By investing in technology and talent, and partnering with local universities and research institutions, we can help develop the next generation of AI and cybersecurity professionals," he said.
Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke said that Quest Software’s decision to expand in Cork is a fantastic endorsement of Ireland’s reputation as a hub for innovation and talent.
"This investment will create high quality jobs and strengthen our technology ecosystem. The Government is committed to fostering an environment where companies like Quest can thrive, and to supporting long-term regional growth. Today’s announcement is a clear signal of confidence in our workforce and enterprise strategy," he added.
"The opening by Quest Software of its Centre for Advanced AI Architecture, which is being announced today, signifies the company’s vote of confidence in Ireland’s AI innovation environment, Executive Director IDA Ireland Dónal Travers said.
"This project positions Quest at the forefront of enterprise AI transformation, delivering technically differentiated solutions that offer global impact. I wish to congratulate the Quest team and assure them of IDA Ireland’s continued support and partnership," he stated.
Quest’s investment and the creation of new roles will contribute to an economic impact in Cork and across Ireland. According to IDA Ireland, every 10 jobs created in IDA client companies support an additional eight jobs in the wider economy.
As part of its expansion plans with the new Centre for Advanced AI Architecture, Quest says it plans to collaborate with Irish universities to develop courses, training programmes, and skills development opportunities focused on AI and cybersecurity for people interested in technology careers.
Ireland has become a leading location for AI research and skills. The country produces nearly 1,500 AI-related masters graduates each year and has nearly doubled its PhD output in AI fields since 2019.
Ireland was also the first country to develop an industry-driven nationwide postgraduate master of science in artificial intelligence. Quest says this depth of talent and the active research environment were important factors in selecting Cork for the new centre.
